Based on the available information, Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels. It is a type of drug known as a statin, which works by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol [3].
Regarding the question about liver enzyme changes indicating Lipitor issues, the Mayo Clinic states that "statins can cause liver enzyme levels to rise" [3]. However, this is usually mild and returns to normal after stopping the drug. The FDA recommends liver enzyme tests before starting a statin and as clinically needed thereafter [3].
A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that "elevated liver enzymes are the most common abnormality observed with the use of statins" [1]. The study also notes that "the majority of these abnormalities are mild and transient, resolving with continued therapy or with a brief drug holiday" [1].
The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) states that "elevations in liver enzymes (transaminases) are the most common abnormality associated with statin therapy" [2]. They also mention that "these elevations are generally mild and asymptomatic, and are typically transient" [2].
In summary, based on the available information, elevated liver enzymes are a common change associated with Lipitor (atorvastatin) use. These changes are usually mild, transient, and resolve with continued therapy or a brief drug holiday. It is recommended to have liver enzyme tests before starting a statin and as clinically needed thereafter [3].
Sources:
[1] <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3070374/>
[2] <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013>
[3] <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR>