See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Based on the information provided and further research, there are other medications that may exhibit fewer lipitor (atorvastatin) related side effects. Lipitor is a statin, a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol levels. While it is generally well-tolerated, some people may experience side effects such as muscle pain, digestive issues, and liver enzyme abnormalities [1].

Ezetimibe is one such medication that could be considered as an alternative. It works by reducing the amount of cholesterol your body absorbs, and studies have shown that it can be used in combination with a statin or alone to lower cholesterol levels [2]. Ezetimibe has been found to have a lower risk of muscle-related side effects compared to statins [3].

Another option is PCSK9 inhibitors, a newer class of cholesterol-lowering drugs. These medications, such as alirocumab and evolocumab, work by increasing the liver's ability to remove LDL (bad) cholesterol from the blood [4]. While they are generally well-tolerated, they can cause injection site reactions and flu-like symptoms [5]. However, they have not been directly compared to statins regarding side effects.

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to medication. They can provide personalized advice based on an individual's medical history and current health status.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Atorvastatin (Oral Route). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20065055>
2. National Lipid Association. (2015). Ezetimibe: An Overview of its Role in Dyslipidemia Management. Retrieved from <https://www.lipidjournal.com/article/S1933-2874(15)00113-2/fulltext>
3. National Lipid Association. (2015). Muscle Safety of Ezetimibe: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Retrieved from <https://www.lipidjournal.com/article/S1933-2874(15)00112-0/fulltext>
4. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2021). What Are PCSK9 Inhibitors? Retrieved from <https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/pcsk9-inhibitors>
5. Drugs.com. (2021). Alirocumab. Retrieved from <https://www.drugs.com/alirocumab.html>
6. Drugs.com. (2021). Evolocumab. Retrieved from <https://www.drugs.com/evolocumab.html>
7. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/atorvastatin>
8. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Ezetimibe. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/ezetimibe>
9. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Alirocumab. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/alirocumab>
10. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Evolocumab. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/evolocumab>