Lipitor faces first big generic hurdle

As employers look to cut prescription drug costs, some consumers are finding Lipitor, the world’s most popular drug, harder and more expensive to get – copays have increased.

The leading anti-cholesterol drug is under pressure as employers push for use of lower-cost generics. In June, Zocor went generic, setting up Lipitor’s first big generic challenge.

It’s estimated that 60% of the 20 million Americans who take anti-cholesterol drugs take less than 40 milligrams a day, and they could safely take a generic.

[Read](http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/health/drugs/2006-07-10-generic-drugs-usat_x.htm?csp=34) (USA Today)

As I’ve found out, my copay for [Tricor](http://www.tricortablets.com/ “More than you ever wanted to know about Tricor”), another cholesterol drug, has increased to $55 per month, and there’s no generic for Tricor.