Lipitor is a commonly prescribed medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. While it is generally safe, there are some potential side effects that may occur with its use. According to the Mayo Clinic [2], common side effects of Lipitor include muscle pain, weakness, and liver damage. Additionally, the drug may interact with other medications, leading to further complications.

Regarding the long-term effects of Lipitor dosage changes, there is limited information available. However, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology [3] suggests that changes in Lipitor dosage may impact a patient's lipid profile, leading to changes in cholesterol levels. Specifically, the study found that increasing the dosage of Lipitor resulted in a greater reduction in LDL cholesterol levels. However, the study did not examine the long-term effects of these changes.

Another study published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology [1] found that Lipitor may have beneficial long-term effects on cardiovascular health. The study followed patients taking Lipitor for up to five years and found that the drug reduced the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, over the long term.

In conclusion, while there is limited information available on the long-term effects of Lipitor dosage changes, the drug is generally considered safe and effective for reducing cholesterol levels. However, patients should be aware of potential side effects and should discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider. It is also important to note that Lipitor should not be used as a substitute for a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Sources:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4059187/
[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/PMC4688585/