Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. It is a statin drug that works by inhibiting an enzyme that produces cholesterol in the liver. According to the FDA, Lipitor and other statins have been linked to various adverse effects, including liver damage, muscle injury, and an increased risk of developing diabetes. Therefore, it is essential to monitor patients who take Lipitor to prevent these adverse effects [2].

The FDA has issued safety label changes to statin drugs, including Lipitor, to reflect the risk of developing diabetes, cognitive impairment, and muscle injury [2]. The FDA also recommends monitoring liver function tests before starting treatment with Lipitor and periodically thereafter to detect any liver damage [2].

A study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) suggests that long-term use of statins like Lipitor can lead to muscle damage and liver injury, which can cause serious health problems [3]. The study recommends regular monitoring of liver function tests and creatine kinase levels to prevent these adverse effects [3].

In conclusion, Lipitor monitoring is crucial for long-term health, as it can help prevent adverse effects such as liver damage, muscle injury, and an increased risk of developing diabetes. Patients who take Lipitor should undergo regular liver function tests and creatine kinase levels monitoring to detect any potential problems [2][3].

Sources:
[2] FDA Drug Safety Communication: Important safety label changes to cholesterol-lowering statin drugs. (2012, February 28). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-drug-safety-communication-important-safety-label-changes-cholesterol-lowering-statin-drugs
[3] National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2017). Statin-Associated Muscle Symptoms and Liver Disease: It's All in the Genes. In Statins: Pharmacology, Clinical Effects, and Management (pp. 75-94). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430779/