Pfizer pulls Lipitor ads featuring artificial heart inventor amid political pressure

WASHINGTON — Pfizer said Monday it is pulling its Lipitor advertisements that feature the inventor of the artificial heart whose endorsement came under congressional fire earlier this year.

In the ads, which began their heavy rotation on TV and in print in 2006, Dr. Robert Jarvik touts the benefits of Pfizer's cholesterol-lowering drug, the world's best-selling medication.

But House Democrats said the ads could be misleading to consumers because Jarvik is not licensed to practice medicine.

In a statement Monday, the company said it would provide "greater clarity in our advertising regarding the presentation of spokespeople."

Shares of Pfizer Inc. rose 29 cents Monday to $22.79 in midday trading.