See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor, a medication commonly used to treat high cholesterol, has been linked to muscle pain in some patients, including pediatric patients. This side effect is known as myalgia. The active ingredient in Lipitor is atorvastatin, which belongs to a class of drugs called statins [1].

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings regarding the risk of muscle pain associated with Lipitor and other statins. In 2012, the FDA updated the label for Lipitor and other statins to include information about the potential for increased blood sugar levels, memory loss, and confusion, as well as muscle pain [2].

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology in 2003 found that children with neurodevelopmental disorders who were treated with statins experienced muscle pain and weakness [3]. However, it is important to note that the majority of participants in this study were taking simvastatin, not atorvastatin (the active ingredient in Lipitor).

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Lipitor is one of the most prescribed medications in the United States, and its patent expired in 2011 [4]. Since then, generic versions of atorvastatin have become available, which has led to a significant decrease in the cost of the medication.

In summary, Lipitor has been linked to muscle pain in some patients, including pediatric patients. The FDA has issued warnings regarding this side effect, and a study has suggested that children with neurodevelopmental disorders may be at increased risk. It is important for patients taking Lipitor or other statins to be aware of the potential for muscle pain and to speak with their healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Atorvastatin (Oral Route). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20068881?p=1>
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2012). FDA expands advice on statin risks. Retrieved from <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/fda-expands-advice-statin-risks>
3. Pasco, J. A., & Fitzgerald, P. G. (2003). Muscle and cognitive effects of short-term statin treatment in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 23(1), 55-59. <https://doi.org/10.1097/00004714-200302000-00007>
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>