Cholesterol Medications
Lipitor vs Crestor
Compare two leading statin medications: Lipitor (atorvastatin) and Crestor (rosuvastatin).
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | Atorvastatin | Rosuvastatin |
|---|---|---|
Effectiveness | LDL reduction 35-60% depending on dose | LDL reduction 40-65% depending on dose (slightly more potent) |
Cost | $4-$15/month generic | $4-$15/month generic |
| Side Effects | Muscle pain, liver enzyme changes | Similar side effects |
Convenience | Once daily, can take any time | Once daily, can take any time |
| Insurance Coverage | Universally covered generic | Universally covered generic |
Key Differences
- Crestor may be slightly more potent at equivalent doses
- Lipitor has longer track record
- Metabolism pathway differences (drug interactions vary)
- Individual response may vary between statins
Similarities
- Both highly effective statins
- Both available as affordable generics
- Similar side effect profiles
- Both reduce cardiovascular risk
Which Is Best For You?
Atorvastatin is Best For:
- Those needing moderate LDL reduction
- Patients with specific drug interaction concerns
Rosuvastatin is Best For:
- Those needing maximum LDL reduction
- Patients with very high cholesterol
- When Lipitor doesn't achieve goals
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crestor stronger than Lipitor?
Crestor is slightly more potent mg-for-mg, but both are highly effective. 20mg Crestor ≈ 40-80mg Lipitor in LDL lowering.
Which statin has fewer side effects?
Side effect profiles are similar. Individual tolerance varies - if one causes issues, switching to the other may help.
Compare Prices for Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin
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