Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. According to DrugPatentWatch [1], Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, and since then, the medication has been available as a generic drug. However, the active ingredient in Lipitor, atorvastatin, remains the same in both the brand-name and generic versions.

Statins, including Lipitor, can cause side effects, but they are generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects include muscle pain, digestive problems, and liver damage. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology [2] found that statin side effects are often over-reported, and many patients stop taking the medication as a result. The study also noted that side effects tend to decrease over time, and patients who continue taking the medication are less likely to experience adverse effects.

The Mayo Clinic [3] advises patients to discuss any potential side effects with their healthcare provider and to report any symptoms promptly. The clinic also notes that some patients may be more susceptible to side effects than others, and that certain medications and supplements can interact with statins.

In conclusion, while Lipitor's management has changed since the medication became available as a generic drug, the active ingredient remains the same. Statin side effects are generally well-tolerated, and many patients who experience side effects find that they decrease over time. However, patients should always discuss any potential side effects with their healthcare provider and report any symptoms promptly.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5958441/
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013