Current Lipitor Prices
Lipitor (atorvastatin), used to lower cholesterol, costs $300-$500 for a 30-day supply of 20mg tablets without insurance at major U.S. pharmacies like Walmart or CVS. Generic atorvastatin drops this to $10-$30 for the same supply.[1]
Generic Atorvastatin vs. Brand-Name Lipitor
Generics match Lipitor's active ingredient and efficacy but cost 80-90% less. A 90-day generic supply averages $15-$40, versus $900+ for brand Lipitor. Pfizer's Lipitor patent expired in 2011, enabling widespread generics from Teva, Mylan, and others.[2][3]
| Pharmacy/Discount | Generic 20mg (30 days) | Brand 20mg (30 days) |
|-------------------|-------------------------|-----------------------|
| Walmart | $10 | $350 |
| GoodRx Coupon | $8 | $300 |
| Costco | $12 | $320 |
| Amazon Pharmacy | $11 | N/A (generic only) |
Prices from October 2024; vary by location and quantity.[1][4]
How GoodRx and Coupons Cut Costs
GoodRx discounts generic atorvastatin to $8-$12 at chains like Kroger or Walgreens. SingleCare offers similar at $9. Print coupons or use apps—no insurance needed. Brand Lipitor rarely qualifies for deep discounts due to generic dominance.[4]
Lipitor Prices with Insurance or Medicare
With commercial insurance, copays run $10-$50 for generics, $100+ for brand. Medicare Part D averages $15 for generics; brand may hit the "donut hole" cap at $40-$200. Check plans via Medicare.gov for specifics.[5]
Why Prices Vary and Where to Buy Cheaper
Location, dosage (10mg-80mg), and pack size drive differences—rural areas cost 10-20% more. Online options like Costco Mail Order or Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs sell generic at $12-$18 per month, shipping included. Avoid unverified sites to dodge counterfeits.[1][6]
Alternatives to Lipitor and Their Prices
Crestor (rosuvastatin) generic: $10-$25/month, slightly stronger LDL reduction. Pravachol (pravastatin) generic: $8-$20, milder effects. Ezetimibe (Zetia generic): $15-$30, pairs with statins. All cheaper than brand statins.[3]
Patent Status and Future Price Drops
U.S. Lipitor patents expired November 2011; no active exclusivities block generics. EU patents ended 2012. No major litigation affects pricing now, keeping generics stable.[2][7]
[1]: GoodRx - Atorvastatin Prices
[2]: DrugPatentWatch.com - Lipitor Patents
[3]: Drugs.com - Atorvastatin Price Guide
[4]: GoodRx - Lipitor Coupons
[5]: Medicare.gov - Part D Costs
[6]: Cost Plus Drugs - Atorvastatin
[7]: FDA Orange Book - Lipitor Exclusivity