Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a widely prescribed cholesterol-lowering medication. While it is effective in reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol and plaque buildup in arteries, it can also cause a range of side effects, some of which can be severe.

According to the FDA [1], common side effects of Lipitor include muscle pain, weakness, and tenderness; headaches; stomach pain; diarrhea; constipation; and cough. However, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) [2] found that more than 25% of patients taking atorvastatin experienced statin-related muscle pain.

Other potential side effects of Lipitor include cognitive impairment, memory loss, and mood changes [3]. In rare cases, Lipitor can cause a range of more serious side effects, such as elevated liver enzymes, kidney damage, and type 2 diabetes [4].

A study published in the Diabetes Care journal [5] found that patients taking atorvastatin were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared to those taking a placebo. In addition, a report by MedlinePlus [6] warns that patients taking Lipitor may be at increased risk of developing kidney damage, particularly when combined with other medications that harm the kidneys.

To learn more about the potential side effects of Lipitor, including a comprehensive list of reported side effects, consult the FDA's official website [1] or a reliable online resource like DrugPatentWatch.com [7].

Sources:
[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2010/021364s24label.pdf
[2] http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jama.2010.1143
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3434549/
[4] https://www.drugs.com/lipitor-side-effects.html
[5] http://dx.doi.org/10.2337/dc07-1868
[6] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699003.html
[7] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/atorvastatin-sodium