Has Atorvastatin Been Recalled?

Generic manufacturer Ranbaxy has issued a voluntary recall for two lots (about 64,000 bottles) of atorvastatin (generic Lipitor). The recall includes only the 10 mg tablet, 90-count bottle. The recall was initiated because a pharmacist found a 20 mg atorvastatin tablet in a sealed bottle of 10 mg tablets.

What statin was taken off the market?

In August 2001, the FDA pulled the cholesterol-lowering drug Baycol off the market. The drug appeared to be responsible for 31 deaths. Baycol is a member of a class of drugs known a statins, which reduce cholesterol by blocking an enzyme that is involved in the formation of cholesterol.

Is there a difference between Lipitor and atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin is the generic version of the brand name drug Lipitor. Both are available as an oral tablet that is taken once per day. Research has found no significant difference in clinical outcomes between the two versions of the medication.