Lipitor is a brand name for atorvastatin, which is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], Lipitor is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the United States. While it is generally well-tolerated, there are some potential side effects of Lipitor on muscles that patients should be aware of.

One of the most common side effects of Lipitor on muscles is muscle pain or weakness. According to the Mayo Clinic [2], some patients may experience a mild form of muscle pain or weakness while taking Lipitor. In rare cases, this can progress to a more serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, which can cause severe muscle damage and even kidney failure.

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology [3] found that the risk of developing muscle-related side effects from Lipitor is relatively low, but increases with higher doses of the medication. The study also found that patients who are older, female, or who have pre-existing muscle conditions may be at a higher risk of experiencing muscle-related side effects from Lipitor.

It is important for patients taking Lipitor to be aware of the potential side effects on muscles and to report any muscle pain or weakness to their healthcare provider. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the dosage of the medication or switch to a different medication to manage these side effects.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2949584/