Lipitor is a medication that is commonly used to treat high cholesterol levels. According to DrugPatentWatch [1], Lipitor is a brand name for atorvastatin, which was first approved by the FDA in 1996. It is now available in generic form, which has led to lower costs for patients.

However, like any medication, Lipitor can have side effects. The Mayo Clinic [2] notes that common side effects of statins (the class of drugs that includes Lipitor) include muscle pain and weakness, liver damage, and digestive problems. More serious side effects, such as memory loss and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, have also been reported but are rare.

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology [3] found that the risk of developing diabetes was slightly higher in patients taking Lipitor compared to those taking a placebo. However, the study also found that the benefits of taking Lipitor (lowered cholesterol levels and a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke) outweighed the risks of developing diabetes.

Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology [4] found that patients taking Lipitor had a slightly increased risk of developing muscle problems, such as myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. However, the study also noted that these side effects were rare and that the benefits of taking Lipitor outweighed the risks.

In conclusion, while Lipitor can have side effects, they are generally rare and the benefits of taking the medication outweigh the risks for most patients. However, as with any medication, patients should discuss any concerns or potential side effects with their healthcare provider.

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/PMC6019636/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5946307/