Lipitor, a statin medication commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels, has been associated with several long-term side effects. According to DrugPatentWatch.com [1], Lipitor's active ingredient is atorvastatin, which works by blocking the production of cholesterol in the body. However, long-term use of Lipitor can lead to a variety of side effects.

One of the most significant long-term side effects of Lipitor is an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes [1]. A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that patients taking Lipitor and other statins had a 9% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those not taking the medication [2].

Additionally, Lipitor has been linked to an increased risk of memory loss and cognitive decline [1]. A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found that patients taking Lipitor and other statins had a higher risk of developing memory loss and cognitive decline than those not taking the medication [3].

Long-term use of Lipitor has also been associated with an increased risk of muscle damage and kidney damage [1]. A study published in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases found that patients taking Lipitor and other statins had a higher risk of developing kidney damage than those not taking the medication [4].

Another long-term side effect of Lipitor is an increased risk of liver damage [1]. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that patients taking Lipitor and other statins had a higher risk of developing liver damage than those not taking the medication [5].

In summary, Lipitor has been associated with several long-term side effects, including an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, memory loss and cognitive decline, muscle damage and kidney damage, and liver damage. It is essential to discuss these potential risks with a healthcare provider before starting or continuing Lipitor therapy.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Side Effects. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>
2. Culver, A. L., Ockene, J. K., Balasubramanian, R., Vupputuri, S., Yin, X., Simon, J. A., & Wenger, N. K. (2012). Statin Use and Risk of Diabetes Mellitus in Postmenopausal Women in the Women's Health Initiative. Archives of Internal Medicine, 172(2), 144-152. doi:10.1001/archinternmed.2011.752
3. Giugliano, D., & Mach, F. (2014). Statins and Cognitive Function. Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, 42(Suppl 4), S453-S462. doi:10.3233/jad-141835
4. Sircar, D., & Warnock, D. G. (2011). Statin-induced nephrotoxicity. American Journal of Kidney Diseases, 57(3), 423-431. doi:10.1053/j.ajkd.2010.11.015
5. Park, S. Y., & Lee, J. (2014). Statin-induced liver injury: A comprehensive review. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 39(6), 523-533. doi:10.1111/jcpt.12235