Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is a type of medication called a statin. Statins are used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, which can help prevent heart attacks and strokes. However, one of the side effects of statins is muscle pain and weakness [2]. This side effect is known as statin-induced myopathy, and it can range from mild discomfort to severe muscle damage [3].
The exact mechanism by which statins cause muscle pain is not fully understood. However, researchers have identified a potential cause of statin-related muscle pain. According to a study by scientists at the University of California, San Diego, statins may interfere with the production of a molecule called coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in the body. CoQ10 is involved in the production of energy in the cells, and low levels of CoQ10 can lead to muscle pain and weakness [3].
While muscle pain is a common side effect of statins, not everyone who takes these medications will experience this symptom. In fact, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology, only about 10% of patients who take statins report muscle pain [2].
In conclusion, Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a type of medication called a statin that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. One of the side effects of statins is muscle pain and weakness, which may be caused by a decrease in the production of CoQ10 in the body. However, not everyone who takes statins will experience muscle pain. If you are experiencing muscle pain while taking Lipitor or any other statin, it is important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms [2][3].
Sources:
[2] Mayo Clinic. Statin side effects: Weigh the benefits and risks. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013
[3] British Heart Foundation. Scientists identify potential cause of statin-related muscle pain. https://www.bhf.org.uk/what-we-do/news-from-the-bhf/news-archive/2019/august/scientists-identify-potential-cause-of-statin-related-muscle-pain
[4] Drug Patent Watch. Lipitor. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR