Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication that is commonly used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease [1]. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], Lipitor was first approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1996 and has been available as a generic medication since 2011.

While Lipitor is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects, including liver damage. However, the risk of liver damage is relatively low and is typically reversible [2]. A study published in the Journal of Lipid Research found that Lipitor can improve liver function in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) [2]. The study found that after 24 weeks of treatment with Lipitor, patients with NAFLD had improved liver function and reduced levels of liver enzymes.

It is important to note that the timeline for liver function improvement with Lipitor can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their liver disease. According to the UK National Health Service [3], liver function tests should be performed before starting Lipitor and regularly during treatment to monitor for any signs of liver damage. If liver function tests show abnormal results, Lipitor may need to be stopped or the dosage may need to be adjusted.

In summary, Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. While it can cause liver damage, the risk is relatively low and is typically reversible. Lipitor has been shown to improve liver function in patients with NAFLD, but the timeline for improvement can vary. It is important to monitor liver function tests during treatment with Lipitor to ensure that any potential liver damage is detected early.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5822686/
[3] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/statins/considerations/