Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. The active ingredient in Lipitor is atorvastatin, which belongs to a class of drugs called statins. Statins work by blocking the enzyme that produces cholesterol in the liver [3].

According to Drug Patent Watch [1], Lipitor was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1996. Since then, it has been widely prescribed to lower cholesterol levels in patients with high cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease.

Medical News Today [2] states that Lipitor is effective in reducing total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides, while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. In a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Lipitor was found to reduce LDL cholesterol levels by an average of 39%, and increase HDL cholesterol levels by an average of 5% [2].

Mayo Clinic [3] also confirms that statins, including Lipitor, are effective in reducing cholesterol levels. However, they caution that statins are not suitable for everyone and can cause side effects such as muscle pain, liver damage, and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Lipitor or any other statin medication.

In conclusion, Lipitor (atorvastatin) is an FDA-approved medication that is effective in reducing cholesterol levels in the body. It is a type of statin medication that works by blocking the enzyme that produces cholesterol in the liver. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Lipitor or any other statin medication, as they may not be suitable for everyone and can cause side effects.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248136
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statins/art-20045772