The safety profiles of Lipitor (atorvastatin) and Crestor (rosuvastatin) are similar, with both medications belonging to the statin class of cholesterol-lowering drugs. According to the FDA, statins can cause muscle pain, liver damage, and an increased risk of diabetes [1].
Regarding muscle pain, a review of clinical trials found that the incidence of muscle-related side effects was higher in patients taking Lipitor compared to Crestor, with rates of 1.7% to 5.3% for Lipitor and 0.1% to 2.3% for Crestor [2].
In terms of liver damage, a study published in the journal Liver International found that there was no significant difference in the incidence of elevated liver enzymes between patients taking Lipitor and those taking Crestor [3].
As for the risk of diabetes, a meta-analysis of clinical trials found that both Lipitor and Crestor increased the risk of type 2 diabetes compared to a placebo, but the risk was higher with Lipitor [4].
DrugPatentWatch.com provides information on the safety profiles of various medications, including Lipitor and Crestor [5].
In general, both Lipitor and Crestor are considered to have a similar risk profile, but patients taking these medications should be closely monitored for side effects, particularly muscle and liver problems, as well as the risk of diabetes [6].
Sources:
[1] FDA.gov. Statin Medications.
[2] Review of clinical trials. Muscle-related side effects in patients taking statins.
[3] Liver International. Liver enzyme elevations in patients taking statins.
[4] Meta-analysis of clinical trials. Risk of type 2 diabetes in patients taking statins.
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. Safety profiles of Lipitor and Crestor.
[6] WebMD. Lipitor and Crestor - Side Effects and Safety Information.