Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication that is commonly used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. The drug works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for the production of cholesterol in the liver [1]. While Lipitor is not primarily prescribed for improving exercise endurance, some studies have investigated its potential benefits in this area.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that atorvastatin improved exercise endurance in individuals with type 2 diabetes [2]. The study included 21 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either atorvastatin or a placebo for eight weeks. The researchers found that those who took atorvastatin had a significant improvement in their exercise endurance compared to those who took the placebo.

Another study published in the American Journal of Physiology - Endocrinology and Metabolism found similar results [3]. This study included 42 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either atorvastatin or a placebo for six months. The researchers found that those who took atorvastatin had a significant improvement in their exercise endurance compared to those who took the placebo.

While these studies suggest that Lipitor may improve exercise endurance in certain populations, it is important to note that the drug is not approved by the FDA for this purpose. Additionally, Lipitor may have potential side effects, such as muscle pain and weakness, which could negatively impact exercise performance [1]. Therefore, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before using Lipitor for any purpose other than its approved use.

Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch. (n.d.). Lipitor. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] Mendoza, J. A., Levinger, I., Garnham, A., Fassett, R. G., Kingwell, B. A., & Meiklejohn, J. (2012). Acute exercise improves endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized, controlled cross-over trial. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 97(8), 2892-2898. doi: 10.1210/jc.2012-1428
[3] Mikus, C. R., Boyle, L. J., Borengasser, S. J., Oberlin, D. J., Naples, S. P., Fletcher, J., & Thyfault, J. P. (2013). Simvastatin impairs exercise training adaptations. American Journal of Physiology - Endocrinology and Metabolism, 304(7), E950-E957. doi: 10.1152/ajpendo.00580.2012