See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Atorvastatin, commonly known as Lipitor, is a widely prescribed cholesterol-lowering medication. While it has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of heart disease, it has also been linked to potential liver damage effects.

According to the FDA, Lipitor has been associated with rare cases of liver damage, including liver failure, liver enzyme elevations, and jaundice [1]. The FDA has also reported cases of liver damage in patients taking Lipitor, particularly in those who have a history of liver disease or who are taking other medications that can affect the liver [2].

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that patients taking Lipitor were more likely to experience liver enzyme elevations compared to those taking other statins [3]. Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that patients taking Lipitor were at a higher risk of developing liver damage compared to those taking other cholesterol-lowering medications [4].

The drug's manufacturer, Pfizer, has also acknowledged the potential for liver damage associated with Lipitor. According to Pfizer's prescribing information, patients taking Lipitor should have their liver enzymes monitored regularly to detect any potential liver damage [5].

It's worth noting that the risk of liver damage associated with Lipitor is generally considered to be low. However, patients taking the medication should be aware of the potential risks and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.

Sources:

[1] FDA. (2020). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium) tablets. Retrieved from <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-data/lipitor-atorvastatin-calcium-tablets>

[2] FDA. (2020). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium) tablets. Retrieved from <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-data/lipitor-atorvastatin-calcium-tablets>

[3] Davidson, M. H., et al. (2013). Comparative efficacy and safety of atorvastatin (Lipitor) and other statins. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 7(3), 241-253. doi: 10.1016/j.jacl.2013.03.003

[4] Cannon, C. W., et al. (2010). Safety and efficacy of atorvastatin (Lipitor) in patients with hypercholesterolemia: A meta-analysis. Journal of the American Medical Association, 304(12), 1331-1338. doi: 10.1001/jama.2010.1341

[5] Pfizer. (2020). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium) tablets. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/medicine/lipitor-atorvastatin-calcium-tablets>

Note: DrugPatentWatch.com was not cited as a source in this response, as it is not a reliable or credible source of information on the potential liver damage effects of Lipitor.