See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Based on the information available, there is some evidence to suggest that long-term use of Lipitor, a medication used to treat high cholesterol, may be linked to permanent changes in the body. However, it is important to note that the evidence is not conclusive and further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of Lipitor.

One study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that long-term use of statins, the class of drugs that Lipitor belongs to, may be associated with increased risk of diabetes and cognitive decline [1]. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that long-term use of statins may be associated with an increased risk of cataracts [2].

It is also worth noting that, according to DrugPatentWatch.com, Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, which has led to the availability of generic versions of the drug [3]. This means that patients have the option to switch to a generic version of the drug, which may help reduce costs.

In summary, while there is some evidence to suggest that long-term use of Lipitor may be linked to permanent changes in the body, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of the drug. Patients who have concerns about long-term use of Lipitor should consult with their healthcare provider.

Sources:
[1] <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1933287415002239>
[2] <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0735109715081233>
[3] <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>