According to the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System, patients taking Lipitor (atorvastatin), a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels, have reported muscle pain as a side effect (FDA.gov).
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that muscle pain, also known as myalgia, was a common complaint among patients taking Lipitor (1). However, the persistence of muscle pain varies from person to person.
Some studies suggest that muscle pain associated with statin use, including Lipitor, may be temporary and resolve on its own once the body adapts to the medication (2). However, in some cases, muscle pain can be persistent and severe, and may lead to muscle damage (3).
It's essential for patients taking Lipitor to consult their doctor if they experience persistent muscle pain or other unusual side effects. The doctor can assess the individual's situation and adjust the medication dosage or consider alternative treatments (4).
According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent for Lipitor has expired, making generic versions of the medication available, which may have different side effect profiles (DrugPatentWatch.com).
Sources:
1. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology (no link available)
2. 'Statins and musculoskeletal adverse effects' by P.H. Jones et al. (no link available)
3. 'The effects of statin therapy on skeletal muscle: a review' (no link available)
4. FDA.gov
5. DrugPatentWatch.com