Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease [1]. While weight loss is not listed as a common side effect of Lipitor, some people may experience weight gain while taking the medication [2]. This weight gain is likely due to factors such as changes in diet or physical activity levels, rather than a direct effect of the drug itself.
It is important to note that Lipitor should only be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider, and should not be used as a weight loss medication [2]. In fact, there is no medication currently available that has been shown to be as effective for weight loss as Lipitor has been for lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease [3].
While some researchers have explored the possibility of developing a medication that could be as successful as Lipitor in treating obesity, the complexity of the underlying causes of obesity makes this a challenging goal to achieve [3]. As such, lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity and improving dietary habits remain the most effective strategies for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/lipitor
[3] https://www.forbes.com/sites/matthewherper/2012/02/28/why-no-obesity-drug-will-ever-be-the-next-lipitor/