Atorvastatin, commonly known as Lipitor, is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease [3]. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], there is no information available on the possibility of withdrawal symptoms from Lipitor, which suggests that it is unlikely to cause withdrawal symptoms.
However, MyMed [2] states that discontinuing the use of atorvastatin can lead to an increase in cholesterol levels and a higher risk of heart disease. This is because atorvastatin works by reducing the production of cholesterol in the liver, and stopping the medication can cause cholesterol levels to increase again.
The NHS [3] also notes that people should not stop taking atorvastatin without consulting their doctor first. This is because abruptly stopping the medication can cause a rebound effect, where cholesterol levels increase rapidly, leading to a higher risk of heart disease.
In summary, while there is no information available on the possibility of withdrawal symptoms from Lipitor [1], stopping the medication can cause an increase in cholesterol levels and a higher risk of heart disease [2][3]. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor before discontinuing the use of atorvastatin [3].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.mymed.com/medication/atorvastatin-lipitor/discontinuation-and-withdrawal-of-atorvastatin-lipitor
[3] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/atorvastatin/common-questions-about-atorvastatin/