Lipitor, a medication used to lower cholesterol levels, has been linked to potential muscle-related side effects in adults and children. Studies suggest that children taking Lipitor may be at risk for muscle damage and weakness, particularly those with pre-existing muscle disorders or taking statins for extended periods (Source: [1] StatPearls, National Library of Medicine).

According to a 2010 study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, the risk of muscle damage in children taking statins, such as Lipitor, is higher in children under the age of 10 (Source: [2] "Statins and the risk of muscle damage" by J. Gidding et al.).

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned about the potential for muscle damage in children and adolescents taking Lipitor, particularly for extended periods or high doses (Source: [3] FDA.gov).

It's essential to note that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends carefully evaluating the benefits and risks of statin therapy in children before initiating treatment and monitoring them regularly for signs of muscle damage (Source: [4] Pediatrics, American Academy of Pediatrics).

DrugPatentWatch.com notes that Lipitor is available in various dosages, and its patent expired in 2016, potentially allowing generic versions to become more widely available and potentially more affordable (Source: [5] DrugPatentWatch.com).

Sources:

1. StatPearls, National Library of Medicine (n.d.). Musculoskeletal Side Effects of Statins.
2. Gidding, J., et al. (2010). Statins and the risk of muscle damage. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 56(4), 342-349.
3. FDA.gov (2022). Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) Information.
4. American Academy of Pediatrics (2022). Cardiovascular risk reduction in children and adolescents.
5. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d). Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) Patent Expires.