Atorvastatin, commonly sold under the brand name Lipitor, is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease [1]. It is a member of the statin class of drugs, which work by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver [2].

According to GoodRx, common side effects of atorvastatin include headache, muscle pain, diarrhea, and nausea [2]. The drug may also cause more serious side effects, such as liver damage and muscle breakdown, although these are rare [2].

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that atorvastatin was generally well-tolerated, with few patients discontinuing the drug due to side effects [3]. However, the study did note that some patients experienced muscle-related side effects, such as pain and weakness, particularly at higher doses [3].

In comparison, the sources provided do not offer specific information on the side effects of any other cholesterol-lowering medications, including those that may be similar to atorvastatin. Therefore, it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the side effects of atorvastatin and those of other drugs.

Overall, atorvastatin (Lipitor) is generally well-tolerated and has a low incidence of serious side effects. However, as with any medication, patients should be aware of the potential risks and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.goodrx.com/atorvastatin/what-is
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4859299/