Lipitor is a brand name for atorvastatin, which is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. According to [1], Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, and it is now available as a generic drug.

While Lipitor is generally considered safe and effective, it can have some side effects. According to the Mayo Clinic [2], some common side effects of statins, including Lipitor, include muscle pain and damage, liver damage, digestive problems, and increased blood sugar levels. However, these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own.

In rare cases, statins can cause more serious side effects, such as memory loss, confusion, and type 2 diabetes. However, the risk of these side effects is generally low. According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology [3], the benefits of statin therapy in reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke outweigh the risks of side effects for most people.

In terms of long-term effects, Lipitor and other statins have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke in people with high cholesterol levels. According to [2], studies have also suggested that statins may have other benefits, such as reducing the risk of certain types of cancer and improving bone health.

In conclusion, Lipitor is a commonly prescribed medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. While it can have some side effects, they are usually mild and go away on their own. The benefits of statin therapy in reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke outweigh the risks of side effects for most people. Lipitor and other statins have been shown to have long-term benefits in reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, and may have other health benefits as well.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4059187/