Lipitor is a medication that is commonly used to treat high cholesterol. It is a type of drug called a statin, which works by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver. According to the first source [1], Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, which means that generic versions of the drug are available. This has made the drug more affordable and accessible to people who need it.

While Lipitor is generally considered safe, it can cause side effects. The second source [2] states that some of the most common side effects of statins include muscle pain and weakness, liver damage, and digestive problems. In rare cases, statins can also cause a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, which can lead to kidney failure. However, the benefits of taking statins generally outweigh the risks for most people with high cholesterol.

The third source [3] provides some insight into the long-term safety of statins. The study found that long-term use of statins was associated with a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke in people with high cholesterol. However, the study also found that long-term use of statins was associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes. The study concluded that the benefits of long-term statin use outweigh the risks for most people with high cholesterol.

In conclusion, Lipitor is generally considered safe for long-term use, but it can cause side effects. The benefits of taking statins generally outweigh the risks for most people with high cholesterol. It is important to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have about taking Lipitor or any other medication.

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/PMC4059187/