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Based on the information provided, I was unable to find a specific recommendation for how often patients taking Lipitor should have liver checks. However, Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication used to treat high cholesterol and prevent heart disease [1]. Like other statins, Lipitor can cause side effects such as liver damage, although this is rare [2].

According to the prescribing information for Lipitor, liver enzyme tests should be performed before starting the medication and as clinically indicated thereafter [3]. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that liver enzyme tests should be performed before starting a statin, and then as clinically needed [4]. The FDA also states that routine monitoring of liver enzymes in patients taking statins is not necessary [4].

It is important to note that patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of liver damage, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark-colored urine, or severe abdominal pain [3].

In summary, while there is no specific recommendation for how often patients taking Lipitor should have liver checks, liver enzyme tests should be performed before starting the medication and as clinically needed thereafter. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of liver damage.

Sources:

* [1] Mayo Clinic. Atorvastatin (Oral Route). <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/description/drg-20063093>
* [2] US National Library of Medicine. Atorvastatin. <https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601262.html>
* [3] Pfizer. Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) Tablets, for Oral Use. Full Prescribing Information. <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/020990s053,021130s015lbl.pdf>
* [4] US Food and Drug Administration. FDA Drug Safety Communication: Important safety label changes to cholesterol-lowering statin drugs. <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/fda-drug-safety-communication-important-safety-label-changes-cholesterol-lowering-statin-drugs>