Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is a type of medication called a statin that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Statins are generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, they can cause side effects. The most common side effect of Lipitor is muscle pain or weakness, which can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and can affect any muscle group in the body [2]. Other possible side effects of Lipitor include headache, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain [1].

Muscle pain and weakness are the most common side effects of statins, including Lipitor. In rare cases, statins can cause a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, which is the breakdown of muscle tissue that can lead to kidney damage and other complications [2]. However, the risk of rhabdomyolysis is very low, and most people who take statins do not experience this side effect.

If you are experiencing muscle pain or weakness while taking Lipitor or another statin, it is important to talk to your doctor. In some cases, switching to a different statin or adjusting the dosage can help alleviate these side effects. In other cases, your doctor may recommend alternative treatments for high cholesterol [3].

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.health.harvard.edu/pain/managing-statin-muscle-pain