Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. According to the drug patent watch website [1], the patent for Lipitor expired in 2011, and now there are generic versions of the drug available.
However, the use of Lipitor during pregnancy is not recommended. Statins, the class of drugs that Lipitor belongs to, have been shown to cause birth defects in animal studies [2]. While there are no definitive studies on the effects of statins on human fetuses, it is recommended that women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant avoid taking statins [2].
For women who have familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that causes high cholesterol levels, there are other options available. According to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center [2], women with this condition can manage their cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and exercise. Additionally, there are other medications available that are safer to use during pregnancy, such as bile acid sequestrants [2].
In summary, while Lipitor can be substituted with generic versions, it is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Women with familial hypercholesterolemia can manage their cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes and alternative medications that are safer during pregnancy.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://utswmed.org/medblog/statins-pregnancy-familial-hypocholesteremia/
[3] https://www.goodrx.com/atorvastatin/what-is