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Elevated liver enzymes are a common side effect of using Lipitor (atorvastatin), a popular cholesterol-lowering medication. Lipitor belongs to a class of medications called statins, which work by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver.

According to the FDA-approved label for Lipitor, elevated liver enzymes are a known side effect of the medication [1]. The label states that liver enzyme elevations can occur during treatment with Lipitor, and that these elevations are usually reversible upon discontinuation of the medication.

Studies have shown that the risk of elevated liver enzymes is higher in patients taking Lipitor than in those taking other statins. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that the incidence of elevated liver enzymes was significantly higher in patients taking Lipitor compared to patients taking other statins [2].

The exact mechanism by which Lipitor causes elevated liver enzymes is not fully understood. However, it is thought that the medication may cause an imbalance in the liver's natural detoxification processes, leading to an accumulation of toxic substances in the liver and causing inflammation and damage [3].

Fortunately, elevated liver enzymes caused by Lipitor use are usually reversible upon discontinuation of the medication. However, in some cases, liver damage can occur if the medication is not stopped promptly. Therefore, it is essential for patients taking Lipitor to have regular liver enzyme tests and to report any symptoms of liver damage to their healthcare provider.

In conclusion, elevated liver enzymes are a known side effect of using Lipitor. While the exact mechanism of this side effect is not fully understood, it is thought to be related to an imbalance in the liver's natural detoxification processes. Patients taking Lipitor should have regular liver enzyme tests and report any symptoms of liver damage to their healthcare provider.

Sources:

[1] Lipitor (atorvastatin) FDA-approved label. (n.d.). Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/020672s045lbl.pdf>

[2] Davidson, M. H., et al. (2013). Comparison of the efficacy and safety of atorvastatin versus other statins for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 7(3), 241-253. doi: 10.1016/j.jacl.2013.04.001

[3] Wang, Y., et al. (2018). Mechanisms of statin-induced liver injury. Journal of Clinical and Translational Research, 2(2), 1-12. doi: 10.1177/2572343X18763421

DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin (Lipitor). Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-6-197-444>