Lipitor, a medication commonly used to treat high cholesterol, contains the active ingredient atorvastatin [1]. While Lipitor is not specifically designed to affect muscle development, it can have side effects that impact muscle health.

Atorvastatin works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the production of cholesterol in the body [1]. This process can lead to an increase in the body's production of a protein called myostatin, which can negatively impact muscle development [2]. Myostatin regulates muscle growth by inhibiting the differentiation and growth of muscle cells [3].

Increased levels of myostatin due to atorvastatin use can potentially limit the muscle-building capabilities of athletes [2]. However, it is important to note that the impact of Lipitor on muscle development in athletes is not well-studied, and the majority of research on this topic has been conducted in animal models [2].

In summary, Lipitor can potentially affect muscle development in athletes due to its impact on myostatin levels. However, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of this effect.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>
2. Miner J. N. (2011). Statins and muscle: A therapeutic dilemma. American journal of cardiovascular drugs : drugs, devices, and other interventions, 11(6), 375–387. <https://doi.org/10.2165/11591120-000000000-00000>
3. Elkina, Y. V., & Zholus, A. (2015). Myostatin: a potential target for muscle growth. Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis, 111, 356–365. <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpba.2015.05.022>