Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. According to DrugPatentWatch [1], Lipitor is the brand name for atorvastatin calcium, which is a type of medication called a statin. Statins work by blocking an enzyme in the liver that is responsible for producing cholesterol. However, one of the potential side effects of statins is liver damage.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information [2] states that liver damage is a rare side effect of statins. It is estimated that less than 1% of people who take statins will experience liver damage. However, it is important to note that certain factors can increase the risk of liver damage, such as having a history of liver disease or heavy alcohol use.
The Mayo Clinic [3] recommends that individuals who take statins, including Lipitor, should have their liver function monitored regularly by a healthcare provider. This can be done through blood tests that check for liver enzymes. If liver enzymes are elevated, it may be a sign of liver damage and the healthcare provider may recommend discontinuing the medication or reducing the dosage.
In conclusion, while Lipitor is generally considered safe for most people, there is a small risk of liver damage associated with the medication. Individuals who take Lipitor should have their liver function monitored regularly by a healthcare provider to ensure that any potential liver damage is caught early.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548236/
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013