Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is a statin used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. According to the first source [1], the patent for Lipitor expired in 2011, which means that generic versions of the drug are now available.

In terms of long-term safety, a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that statins like Lipitor are generally safe and well-tolerated for long-term use [2]. The study reviewed data from multiple randomized controlled trials and found that statins did not increase the risk of cancer, cognitive decline, or other serious adverse events. However, the study did note that some patients may experience muscle pain or weakness as a side effect of statin use.

The Mayo Clinic also notes that statins like Lipitor are generally safe for long-term use [3]. However, they caution that some patients may experience side effects such as muscle pain, liver damage, or an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The risk of these side effects is generally low, but patients should be aware of them and discuss any concerns with their doctor.

In conclusion, Lipitor (atorvastatin) is generally considered safe for long-term use, according to the sources cited. However, as with any medication, there is a risk of side effects, and patients should discuss any concerns with their doctor.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4059187/
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013