Lipitor is a brand name for atorvastatin, a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. According to the Mayo Clinic [3], the most common side effects of atorvastatin include headache, muscle aches, diarrhea, and nausea. However, there is a potential risk of liver damage with this medication. In rare cases, atorvastatin can cause liver damage or liver failure. Patients who experience symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes should contact their healthcare provider immediately. Additionally, patients with a history of liver disease or heavy alcohol use should use atorvastatin with caution [3].

Medical News Today [2] reports that liver damage is a rare but serious side effect of atorvastatin. The article notes that patients who take high doses of atorvastatin or who have pre-existing liver disease may be at a higher risk of developing liver damage. However, the article also notes that routine monitoring of liver function is not typically necessary for patients taking atorvastatin [2].

Drug Patent Watch [1] provides additional information about the potential risk of liver damage with atorvastatin. The website notes that liver damage is a rare side effect of the medication and that most cases of liver damage associated with atorvastatin occur within the first three months of treatment. The website also notes that liver function tests are recommended for patients who develop symptoms of liver damage while taking atorvastatin [1].

In summary, while atorvastatin is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, there is a potential risk of liver damage associated with this medication. Patients who experience symptoms of liver damage should contact their healthcare provider immediately. Patients with a history of liver disease or heavy alcohol use should use atorvastatin with caution. Routine monitoring of liver function is not typically necessary for patients taking atorvastatin, but liver function tests may be recommended for patients who develop symptoms of liver damage while taking the medication.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-lipitor-side-effects
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013