Lipitor is a brand name for atorvastatin, a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Atorvastatin belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which are widely used to treat high cholesterol. While statins are generally safe and well-tolerated, they can cause side effects in some people.

There are several alternatives to Lipitor that may be used to lower cholesterol levels. Some of these alternatives include:

1. Ezetimibe: Ezetimibe is a medication that works by blocking the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines. It is often used in combination with a statin to lower cholesterol levels.

2. PCSK9 inhibitors: PCSK9 inhibitors are a newer class of medications that work by blocking a protein that reduces the liver's ability to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood. They are typically used in combination with a statin in people who have not achieved their cholesterol-lowering goals with a statin alone.

3. Bile acid sequestrants: Bile acid sequestrants are medications that work by binding to bile acids in the intestines, preventing them from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This causes the liver to use more cholesterol to make new bile acids, which can lower cholesterol levels in the blood.

Like statins, these medications can cause side effects in some people. Common side effects of ezetimibe include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. PCSK9 inhibitors can cause injection site reactions, flu-like symptoms, and allergic reactions. Bile acid sequestrants can cause constipation, bloating, and gas.

It is important to talk to your doctor about the potential side effects of any medication you are taking. Your doctor can help you weigh the benefits and risks of different cholesterol-lowering medications and determine which one is right for you.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.singlecare.com/blog/atorvastatin-alternatives/
[3] https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/cholesterol-lowering-alternatives.