Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a medication that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. According to the Drug Patent Watch website [1], Lipitor was first approved by the FDA in 1996 and has been available in the United States since then. The medication has been used by millions of people worldwide to manage high cholesterol levels and prevent heart disease.

However, one of the most common side effects of statin medications like Lipitor is muscle pain and weakness [2]. The Mayo Clinic [2] notes that muscle pain and weakness can occur within a few weeks or months of starting statin therapy. The muscle pain can be mild or severe and can affect one or more muscles in the body. In rare cases, statins can cause a serious muscle condition called rhabdomyolysis, which can lead to kidney damage.

A recent study reported by CNN [3] suggests that muscle pain associated with statin use may be more common than previously thought. The study found that up to 25% of people who take statins experience muscle pain, which is higher than the previously reported rate of 10-15%. The study also found that some people may be more susceptible to muscle pain from statins due to genetic factors.

In conclusion, muscle pain associated with statin use, including Lipitor, can occur within a few weeks or months of starting therapy [2]. The prevalence of muscle pain from statins may be higher than previously reported, affecting up to 25% of people who take these medications [3]. If you experience muscle pain or weakness while taking Lipitor or any other statin medication, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013
[3] https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/29/health/statins-muscle-pain-study-wellness/index.html