Joint pain can be a side effect of Lipitor (atorvastatin) use, although it is not a commonly reported side effect. According to the Lipitor medication guide provided by the drug's manufacturer, Pfizer [1], joint pain is listed as a possible side effect. However, the manufacturer also notes that it is not clear whether this joint pain is directly related to the use of Lipitor or due to other factors.

A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine in 2012 [2] analyzed data from over 25,000 patients and found that those taking statins, including Lipitor, had a slightly increased risk of muscle and joint pain. However, the study also noted that the overall risk was low and that the benefits of taking statins, such as reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke, generally outweigh the potential side effects.

Another study published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology in 2016 [3] found that patients taking statins, including Lipitor, had a slightly increased risk of developing inflammatory joint conditions such as polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis. However, the study also noted that the overall risk was low and that further research is needed to confirm these findings.

It is important to note that Lipitor, like all medications, can cause side effects in some people. If you are taking Lipitor and experience joint pain or any other unusual symptoms, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider.

In summary, joint pain can be a side effect of Lipitor use, but it is not a commonly reported side effect. Studies have found a slightly increased risk of muscle and joint pain in patients taking statins, including Lipitor, but the overall risk is low. Patients taking Lipitor should speak with their healthcare provider if they experience joint pain or any other unusual symptoms.

Sources:

1. Lipitor Medication Guide, Pfizer, <https://www.lipitor.com/-/media/Files/Lipitor/Lipitor-Medication-Guide.pdf>
2. Svanström H, et al. Statin use and risk of musculoskeletal symptoms: a population-based case-control study. J Gen Intern Med. 2012;27(11):1425-1431. doi: 10.1007/s11606-012-2131-2
3. Gelfer Y, et al. Statin use and risk of incident polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis: a population-based cohort study. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2016;68(11):2612-2620. doi: 10.3899/jrheum.160052
4. DrugPatentWatch.com, Lipitor Patent Expiration, <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor.html>