Lipitor moves to preferred brand on CIGNA's Rx drug list

CIGNA Pharmacy Management has moved Lipitor (atorvastatin), the world's number one selling drug from pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, to the less expensive preferred brand on the company's prescription drug list. Moving Lipitor to a preferred brand will result in significantly reduced costs for individuals CIGNA serves who use Lipitor. The savings became effective with prescriptions filled beginning on November 11.

"We are always looking for ways to improve access to FDA-approved medications, while providing cost-effective choices to those we serve," said Eric Elliott, president of CIGNA. "While we are always updating our drug list, we are particularly pleased to be able to announce this cost reduction during these challenging economic times. This move will reduce costs, making it more likely that individuals will take their required medications, thereby improving health," he added.

By moving Lipitor to the preferred status, the out-of-pocket cost of the drug is dramatically reduced for the majority of individuals. Depending on their prescription benefit plan, at preferred brand status, the cost of a one-month prescription can decrease by up to 50%.