Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels. It belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which work by blocking an enzyme that the body uses to make cholesterol. The drug is produced by Pfizer, and its patent expired in 2011, allowing other companies to produce generic versions of the drug [1].

Atorvastatin is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the United States, and it is available in both brand-name and generic versions. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, generic atorvastatin is just as effective as the brand-name version in lowering cholesterol levels [2].

The generic version of atorvastatin is often significantly cheaper than the brand-name version. According to GoodRx, a website that tracks drug prices, the average retail price for a 30-day supply of brand-name Lipitor is around $500, while the average retail price for a 30-day supply of generic atorvastatin is around $10 [3].

In conclusion, generic atorvastatin is a safe and effective alternative to brand-name Lipitor for treating high cholesterol levels. It is significantly cheaper than the brand-name version, making it a more affordable option for patients. However, as with any medication, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting treatment with atorvastatin.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4859299/
[3] https://www.goodrx.com/atorvastatin/what-is