Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood [1]. According to the Mayo Clinic, statins such as Lipitor are generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, but like all medications, they can have side effects [2]. One potential side effect that has been associated with statins is an increased risk of developing diabetes.

Research has suggested that taking statins may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, particularly in people who have other risk factors for the disease, such as obesity or a family history of diabetes [2]. However, the risk appears to be relatively small, and the benefits of taking statins to lower cholesterol levels may outweigh the potential risks for many people [2].

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology in 2019 found that while statin use was associated with a slightly increased risk of developing diabetes, the risk was still low, and the benefits of statin therapy in reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke outweighed the risk of diabetes [3].

In summary, while taking Lipitor may increase the risk of developing diabetes, the risk appears to be relatively small and outweighed by the benefits of lowering cholesterol levels for many people. As with all medications, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.

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.healthline.com/health/diabetes/lipitor