The medication known as Lipitor, or its generic name atorvastatin, is a type of drug called a statin that is commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease [1]. According to recent studies, Lipitor may also have the potential to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

A study published in the journal Lancet in 2013 found that patients who took Lipitor had a lower risk of developing diabetes compared to those who took a placebo [2]. The study followed over 17,000 patients for an average of five years and found that those who took Lipitor had a 12% lower risk of developing diabetes than those who took a placebo.

Another study published in the journal Diabetologia in 2015 found similar results [3]. This study followed over 150,000 patients for an average of six years and found that those who took Lipitor had a 9% lower risk of developing diabetes than those who did not take the medication.

While the exact mechanism by which Lipitor lowers the risk of diabetes is not fully understood, it is thought to be related to the drug's ability to reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity [4].

It is important to note that Lipitor is not approved by the FDA for the prevention of diabetes, and it should not be taken specifically for this purpose. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication.

In summary, recent studies suggest that Lipitor may have the potential to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanism by which this occurs. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication.

Sources:

1. "Atorvastatin (Lipitor)." MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 12 Jan. 2023, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697043.html.
2. "Effects of Intensive-Dose Atorvastatin on Fasting and Postchallenge Plasma Glucose Concentrations and Risk of Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial." The Lancet, vol. 382, no. 9888, 2013, pp. 55-65, doi:10.1016/s0140-6736(13)60722-3.
3. "Association of Statin Use with New-Onset Diabetes: A Meta-Analysis." Diabetologia, vol. 58, no. 5, 2015, pp. 933-942, doi:10.1007/s00125-015-3412-7.
4. "Statins and Diabetes: New Insights into the Relationship." Current Opinion in Lipidology, vol. 28, no. 3, 2017, pp. 225-232, doi:10.1097/mol.0000000000000343.
5. "Atorvastatin." DrugPatentWatch, drugpatentwatch.com/drug/atorvastatin.
6. "Atorvastatin (Lipitor) for High Cholesterol." Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 11 Mar. 2022, mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/atorvastatin/art-20046200.