Atorvastatin, marketed under the brand name Lipitor, is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels. While it is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects, including those that affect the respiratory system. According to [2], the most common side effects of atorvastatin include headaches, muscle pain, and joint pain. However, it can also cause coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing. These respiratory symptoms are relatively rare, occurring in less than 1% of patients taking the medication.

In a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine [3], researchers investigated the effect of atorvastatin on lung function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study found that atorvastatin had a beneficial effect on lung function, reducing the number of exacerbations and improving lung function tests. However, the study did not report any significant adverse respiratory effects associated with atorvastatin use.

In conclusion, while atorvastatin can cause respiratory side effects such as coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing, these are relatively rare. A recent study found that atorvastatin had a beneficial effect on lung function in patients with COPD and did not report any significant adverse respiratory effects associated with its use. As with any medication, patients should discuss any concerns or potential side effects with their healthcare provider.

Sources:
[2] https://patient.info/medicine/atorvastatin-tablets-lipitor
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7679442/