See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a statin, a class of drugs often prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. The impact of Lipitor on the liver differs from other cholesterol drugs in several ways.

Firstly, like other statins, Lipitor can increase liver enzymes levels [1]. However, this is usually mild and does not cause symptoms. The elevation in liver enzymes is reversible and returns to normal after discontinuation of the drug. It is important to note that this effect is not unique to Lipitor and is common to all statins.

Secondly, Lipitor has a lower risk of causing severe liver damage compared to other cholesterol drugs, such as fibrates and bile acid sequestrants. These drugs have been associated with cases of severe liver injury, including hepatitis and liver failure [2]. In contrast, Lipitor has a well-established safety profile, and severe liver damage is rare [1].

Thirdly, Lipitor is metabolized by the liver, but it does not require dose adjustment in patients with liver dysfunction [1]. This is in contrast to other cholesterol drugs, such as nicotinic acid, which requires dose adjustment in patients with liver dysfunction [3].

In summary, while Lipitor can increase liver enzymes levels, it has a lower risk of causing severe liver damage compared to other cholesterol drugs. Additionally, Lipitor does not require dose adjustment in patients with liver dysfunction, making it a suitable option for patients with liver disease.

Sources:
[1] Lipitor (atorvastatin) [Prescribing Information]. Pfizer Labs; 2018. Available from: <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/202080s033lbl.pdf>.
[2] Byrns MC, Claypool K, Baker S, et al. Hepatotoxicity of cholesterol-lowering drugs. Am J Cardiovasc Drugs. 2002;2(6):373-383. doi:10.2165/00129782-200202060-00003
[3] Niaspan (niacin) [Prescribing Information]. AbbVie Inc.; 2016. Available from: <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/020817s033lbl.pdf>.
[4] DrugPatentWatch.com. Atorvastatin (Lipitor) Patent Expiration & Generics. Available from: <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/atorvastatin-lipitor/>.