Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It is a type of statin, a class of drugs that works by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver. According to the sources provided, there are potential long-term side effects of Lipitor use.

One potential long-term side effect of Lipitor use is liver damage. Lipitor can cause an increase in liver enzymes, which can be a sign of liver damage. This risk is increased in patients who consume large amounts of alcohol or have pre-existing liver disease [2].

Another potential long-term side effect of Lipitor use is muscle damage. Lipitor can cause muscle pain, weakness, and inflammation, which can lead to a condition called rhabdomyolysis. This condition can cause severe muscle damage and kidney failure [2].

Additionally, Lipitor use has been associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes [3]. This risk is more pronounced in patients who have other risk factors for diabetes, such as obesity or a family history of the disease.

It is important to note that not all patients who take Lipitor will experience these side effects, and many patients can take the medication safely for extended periods of time. However, patients should be aware of the potential risks and discuss them with their healthcare provider before starting treatment with Lipitor.

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/PMC4059187/