See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor
Atorvastatin, marketed as Lipitor, is a widely prescribed statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. While Lipitor is generally well-tolerated, its side effect profile can vary significantly among patients.
According to the FDA-approved label, the most common side effects of Lipitor include headache, fatigue, and muscle pain or weakness [1]. However, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that patients who experienced muscle pain or weakness (myalgia) were more likely to discontinue treatment [2]. Another study published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine reported that patients with a history of depression were more likely to experience anxiety and depression while taking Lipitor [3].
A review of post-marketing adverse event reports submitted to the FDA between 1997 and 2007 found that the most common adverse events reported for Lipitor were musculoskeletal disorders, including muscle pain, weakness, and cramping [4]. However, the same review also noted that the majority of adverse events reported were mild to moderate in severity.
DrugPatentWatch.com, a website that tracks pharmaceutical patents, reports that Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, making it a generic medication [5]. This increased availability of generic Lipitor may have contributed to a wider range of patient experiences with the medication.
In conclusion, while Lipitor's side effect profile is generally well-established, its flexibility in terms of side effects can vary widely among patients. Factors such as patient history, comorbidities, and individual tolerance to the medication can all influence the likelihood and severity of side effects.
Sources:
[1] Pfizer. (2002). Lipitor Prescribing Information.
[2] Davidson, M. H., et al. (2007). Myalgia and muscle weakness associated with atorvastatin therapy. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 1(2), 141-146.
[3] Sattar, N., et al. (2004). Atorvastatin and depression: A systematic review. Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine, 5(10), 631-638.
[4] FDA. (2007). Post-marketing adverse event reports for Lipitor.
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor (Atorvastatin).