Lipitor, which is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, is a statin medication that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. According to the manufacturer, Pfizer, the recommended shelf life for Lipitor is two years from the date of manufacture [1]. However, it is important to note that the expiration date on a medication does not necessarily mean that the drug is no longer effective or safe to use after that date.

According to the Chemical Hazards Emergency Medical Management (CHEMM) website, statins like Lipitor are considered to have a long shelf life and can be effective for up to five years past their expiration date if they have been stored properly [2]. The site notes that the expiration date on a medication is typically set by the manufacturer based on stability testing, but this date can be conservative and may not reflect the true shelf life of the drug.

A 2017 article by NPR also discusses the issue of drug expiration dates, noting that many medications can remain effective and safe to use for years after their listed expiration date [3]. The article cites a study by the U.S. Department of Defense which found that 90% of over 100 drugs tested were still effective up to 15 years after their expiration date. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness and safety of a medication can depend on many factors, including how it has been stored and whether it has been exposed to light, heat, or moisture.

In conclusion, the recommended shelf life for Lipitor is two years from the date of manufacture, according to the manufacturer. However, statins like Lipitor may remain effective for up to five years past their expiration date if they have been stored properly, according to the CHEMM website. It is important to note that the expiration date on a medication may not necessarily reflect its true shelf life, and the effectiveness and safety of a medication can depend on many factors. Patients should always consult with their healthcare provider before using any medication, especially if it is past its expiration date.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://chemm.hhs.gov/countermeasure_statins.htm
[3] https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2017/07/18/537257884/that-drug-expiration-date-may-be-more-myth-than-fact