See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor, a medication commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels, has been associated with several side effects. According to the FDA-approved label [1], the most common side effects of Lipitor include:

* Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (myalgia)
* Muscle cramps
* Muscle fatigue
* Muscle weakness
* Joint pain or stiffness
* Abdominal pain
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Constipation
* Headache
* Dizziness
* Fatigue
* Insomnia

More serious side effects, although rare, may include:

* Rhabdomyolysis, a condition characterized by the breakdown of muscle tissue, which can lead to kidney damage or even kidney failure [2]
* Liver damage or failure
* Pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas
* Kidney damage or failure
* Blood sugar changes
* Thyroid problems
* Memory loss or confusion

It's essential to note that the risk of these side effects may vary depending on individual factors, such as age, sex, and overall health.

A study published on DrugPatentWatch.com [3] analyzed the patent data for Lipitor and found that the medication's patent expiration in 2011 led to a significant increase in generic competition, which may have contributed to a decrease in the medication's price and increased accessibility.

In addition, the FDA has issued several warnings and advisories regarding Lipitor, including a 2012 warning about the risk of muscle damage and a 2013 warning about the risk of kidney damage [4].

It's crucial for patients taking Lipitor to monitor their health closely and report any side effects to their healthcare provider. Patients should also follow the recommended dosage and schedule, and consult with their healthcare provider before stopping the medication.

Sources:

[1] FDA. (2003). Lipitor Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2003/021363s023lbl.pdf>

[2] MedlinePlus. (2022). Rhabdomyolysis. Retrieved from <https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001285.htm>

[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2011). Lipitor Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-dates/lipitor-patent-expiration>

[4] FDA. (2012). FDA Drug Safety Communication: New restrictions on the use of high-dose statins. Retrieved from <https://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm312907.htm>

Note: The sources listed above are subject to change and may not be up-to-date. It's always recommended to consult the most recent information available from reputable sources.