Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. It belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which work by inhibiting an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase that is involved in cholesterol synthesis [1]. While Lipitor is generally well-tolerated, it can cause some side effects, including digestive problems.

According to the Mayo Clinic [2], some of the common digestive side effects of Lipitor include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, but in some cases, they can be severe and persistent.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology [3] found that Lipitor can cause changes in the gut microbiome, which is the collection of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. The study found that Lipitor use was associated with a decrease in the diversity of gut bacteria and an increase in the abundance of certain bacterial species. The researchers suggested that these changes in the gut microbiome could contribute to the digestive side effects of Lipitor.

It is important to note that not everyone who takes Lipitor will experience digestive side effects, and the severity of these side effects can vary from person to person. If you are experiencing digestive problems while taking Lipitor, you should talk to your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication to help alleviate your symptoms.

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/PMC4305860/