Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. If you take expired Lipitor, it may not be as effective as it should be, and there is also a risk of potential harm. The effectiveness of a drug may decrease over time, and the chemical composition of the medication may change, leading to potential health risks. A study published in the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy found that expired Lipitor tablets showed a decrease in potency, which could lead to ineffective treatment of high cholesterol [2].

It is important to note that expiration dates are not arbitrary and are based on stability testing conducted by drug manufacturers. While some medications may still be safe and effective after their expiration date, it is not recommended to take expired medications as a general rule. According to Harvard Health Publishing, expired medications may lose their potency, which could lead to ineffective treatment, or they may even become harmful due to chemical changes [3].

In conclusion, taking expired Lipitor may lead to ineffective treatment of high cholesterol and potential health risks. It is recommended to dispose of expired medications and consult with a healthcare professional for a new prescription if needed [3].

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40090-017-0120-5
[3] https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/drug-expiration-dates-do-they-mean-anything