Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. While it is generally well-tolerated, some people may experience side effects such as muscle pain. According to the Mayo Clinic [2], muscle pain is one of the most common side effects of statins, including Lipitor. This can range from mild discomfort to severe muscle damage, known as rhabdomyolysis. However, the risk of developing rhabdomyolysis is rare and occurs in less than one in 10,000 people taking statins [2].
If you are experiencing muscle pain while taking Lipitor, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider. They may recommend lowering your dosage or switching to a different medication. GoodRx [3] suggests that taking CoQ10 supplements may also help alleviate muscle pain associated with statins, although more research is needed to confirm this.
In summary, while muscle pain is a potential side effect of Lipitor, it is not experienced by everyone and is usually mild. If you are experiencing muscle pain, speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
Sources:
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Statin side effects: Weigh the benefits and risks. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013
[3] GoodRx. (2021). Muscle Pain from Statins: How to Prevent This Common Side Effect. https://www.goodrx.com/classes/statins/muscle-pain-statins-how-to-prevent-common-side-effect