Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, a key player in the production of cholesterol in the body [1].

The mechanism of Lipitor specifically targets the production of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, which is a rate-limiting enzyme in the cholesterol synthesis pathway [2]. By inhibiting this enzyme, Lipitor reduces the amount of cholesterol that the liver produces, leading to an increase in the number of LDL receptors on the surface of liver cells. These receptors then remove LDL from the bloodstream, thereby reducing the levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood [1].

Additionally, Lipitor has been shown to have pleiotropic effects, meaning it has additional effects beyond just lowering cholesterol levels. For example, Lipitor has been found to stabilize atherosclerotic plaques, reduce inflammation, and improve endothelial function [3].

In summary, Lipitor's mechanism of action involves inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, which reduces the production of cholesterol in the liver, leading to an increase in LDL receptors on liver cells and a subsequent reduction in LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. Lipitor also has pleiotropic effects that contribute to its overall therapeutic benefit.

Sources:

[1] "Atorvastatin." MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Mar. 2022, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601249.html.

[2] "Atorvastatin." DrugPatentWatch.com, DrugPatentWatch, 2022, drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/atorvastatin.

[3] "Pleiotropic Effects of Statins." Circulation Research, American Heart Association, 1 Jan. 2003, www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.RES.0000062533.61102.76.