Lipitor is the brand name for the cholesterol-reducing drug atorvastatin calcium, manufactured by Pfizer. Lipitor is in a class of drugs called statins, which inhibit the liver's production of cholesterol. Numerous side effects are possible, although most people do not experience any, and those experienced are usually mild. Rarely, more dangerous side effects occur.
Most Common Side Effects
Over 5 percent of people taking Lipitor in clinical trials experienced headaches, muscle pain, joint pain, diarrhea and sinus problems.
Less Common Side Effects
Other less common side effects in the trials included a lack of appetite, constipation, stomach pain, back pain, weakness, sore throat and rash, among others. See the Resources section for a more complete list of side effects.
Breastfeeding
When Lipitor was tested with nursing rats, baby rats had significant levels of Lipitor in their blood and liver. Women taking Lipitor should not breastfeed.
Liver Issues
Lipitor can cause elevated liver enzymes, with symptoms such as yellow eyes or skin, or dark urine. People with liver problems and those who drink large amounts of alcohol should not use Lipitor.
Kidney Issues
A rare danger is the risk of rhabdomyolysis, in which skeletal muscle breaks down and releases the protein myoglobin into the blood, which can cause kidney damage.
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