Lipitor and Simvastatin are both statins used to treat high cholesterol levels in the body. Lipitor is the brand name for atorvastatin, while Simvastatin is a generic drug. Both drugs are available in different strengths and have different costs.

According to Drug Patent Watch [1], the patent for Lipitor expired in 2011, which allowed other companies to manufacture and sell generic versions of atorvastatin. This competition led to a decrease in the price of Lipitor and its generic versions. However, Lipitor is still more expensive than Simvastatin.

SingleCare [2] reports that the average retail price for a 30-day supply of Lipitor 20mg is $300, while the average retail price for a 30-day supply of Simvastatin 20mg is $10. The cost difference between the two drugs can be attributed to the fact that Simvastatin is a generic drug, which is usually cheaper than brand-name drugs.

GoodRx [3] provides a comparison chart of the cost and intensity of different statins, including Lipitor and Simvastatin. According to the chart, the average retail price for a 30-day supply of Lipitor 20mg is $304.35, while the average retail price for a 30-day supply of Simvastatin 20mg is $8.73. The chart also shows that Lipitor is a high-intensity statin, while Simvastatin is a moderate-intensity statin.

In conclusion, Simvastatin is significantly cheaper than Lipitor, with a price difference of around $290 for a 30-day supply. However, Lipitor is a high-intensity statin, while Simvastatin is a moderate-intensity statin. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider to determine which medication is best for their individual needs, taking into consideration the cost and intensity of the medication.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.singlecare.com/blog/atorvastatin-vs-simvastatin/
[3] https://www.goodrx.com/classes/statins/intensity-comparison-chart