Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. According to the Drug Patent Watch website [1], Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a prescription medication that was approved by the FDA in 1996. It is manufactured by Pfizer and is one of the best-selling drugs in the world. The drug works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver.

Stopping Lipitor can have both positive and negative effects. According to a book chapter published on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website [2], discontinuing statin therapy can lead to an increase in cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular events. However, stopping statin therapy can also reduce the risk of side effects associated with the medication.

A study published on CNN [3] found that while statins like Lipitor are generally safe and effective, some patients experience side effects such as muscle pain, liver damage, and an increased risk of diabetes. The study found that for patients who experience side effects, stopping statin therapy can lead to a reduction in symptoms. However, the study also found that stopping statin therapy can increase the risk of cardiovascular events in patients who are at high risk for heart disease.

In conclusion, the success rate of stopping Lipitor depends on the individual patient and their specific circumstances. Discontinuing statin therapy can lead to an increase in cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular events. However, stopping statin therapy can also reduce the risk of side effects associated with the medication. Patients who are considering stopping Lipitor should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for their individual situation.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548236/
[3] https://www.cnn.com/2017/07/24/health/statins-side-effects-outcomes-study/index.html