Generic version: Lipitor is available in a generic form called atorvastatin. A generic drug is an exact copy of the active ingredient in a brand-name medication. Atorvastatin is commonly used to lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL-C) and fats (triglycerides) in the blood. It also increases good cholesterol levels (HDL). Improving your cholesterol. Lipitor is a prescription medicine used to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other heart complications. Learn about dosage, side effects, drug interactions, warnings, and more. Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a medication prescribed by a doctor to lower cholesterol in people who have been diagnosed with high cholesterol (high levels of cholesterol in the blood). Atorvastatin belongs to the group of medicines called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, or statins. It works by blocking an enzyme that is needed by the body to make cholesterol, and this reduces the amount of cholesterol in the blood. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. Rosuvastatin (Crestor) and atorvastatin (Lipitor) are both statins that lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people at increased cardiovascular risk. Atorvastatin tablets are available as brand-name Lipitor and a generic. There's also a liquid form that only comes as brand name Atorvaliq. It's possible to have side effects like muscle pain, joint pain, and stomach upset. Most times, atorvastatin (Lipitor) is taken along with a heart-healthy diet to get the most benefits from treatment. Is there a generic for Lipitor? Atorvastatin is the generic name for Lipitor, and it has been available in the U.S. market since 2011, when Lipitor’s patent protection expired. It is one of the most prescribed drugs on the market. Generic Name: atorvastatin. Drug Class: statins, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, lipid -lowering agents. What is atorvastatin (Lipitor), and what is it used for? Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a type of statin that lowers the level of cholesterol in the blood. This medicine is available as: atorvastatin 10 mg tablets, atorvastatin 20 mg tablets, atorvastatin 40 mg tablet, 80 mg tablets. The original brand name of atorvastatin was Lipitor, and now it is also available as a generic.