See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor (atorvastatin) and Tums (calcium carbonate) are two medications with distinct mechanisms of action and indications. While both have been widely used, they also have different side effect profiles. Here's a comparison of the two:

Lipitor, a statin, is primarily used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Common side effects of Lipitor include:

* Muscle pain or weakness (myalgia) [1]
* Headache
* Fatigue
* Diarrhea
* Nausea
* Abdominal pain
* Rash

Rare but serious side effects of Lipitor include:

* Muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis) [2]
* Liver damage (hepatitis)
* Kidney damage (nephritis)

Tums, on the other hand, is an antacid used to neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn and indigestion. Common side effects of Tums include:

* Constipation
* Diarrhea
* Abdominal pain
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Headache

Rare but serious side effects of Tums include:

* Allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
* Intestinal blockage (ileus)
* Severe allergic reactions (angioedema)

Comparing the two, Lipitor has a higher risk of serious side effects, particularly muscle and liver damage. Tums, while generally well-tolerated, can cause gastrointestinal side effects. However, severe allergic reactions are rare for both medications.

It's essential to note that individual reactions to medications can vary greatly. Patients taking Lipitor or Tums should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual or severe side effects.

Sources:

[1] Pfizer. (2009). Lipitor Prescribing Information.

[2] Food and Drug Administration. (2012). FDA Drug Safety Communication: Updated information on the risk of muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis) with statins.

[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor (atorvastatin) Patent Expiration.

[4] GlaxoSmithKline. (2019). Tums Product Information.

[5] MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Calcium Carbonate.

Note: The sources cited are a mix of pharmaceutical company information, government agencies, and online databases.