See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Based on the information available, it is difficult to definitively classify gastrointestinal (GI) issues related to Lipitor (atorvastatin) as common or rare. However, some studies and reports suggest that GI side effects may occur in a significant number of patients taking Lipitor.

According to the Lipitor Prescribing Information, the most commonly reported adverse reactions (≥2% and greater than placebo) in clinical trials include diarrhea and pain in the abdomen or stomach [1]. Moreover, DrugPatentWatch.com states that "Lipitor may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and constipation" [2]. These statements suggest that GI issues are not uncommon among Lipitor users.

However, it is important to note that the frequency of GI side effects may vary depending on factors such as dosage, individual patient characteristics, and concomitant medications. Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to monitor patients taking Lipitor for any potential GI issues and adjust treatment accordingly.

In summary, while the exact prevalence of Lipitor-related GI issues is unclear, some studies and reports suggest that these side effects may be relatively common. Patients taking Lipitor should be aware of potential GI symptoms and consult their healthcare providers if they experience any adverse reactions.

Sources:
[1] Lipitor Prescribing Information. Pfizer Labs. January 2021. <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/020990s054,021012s015,021014s014,021015s014,021016s014,021017s014,021018s014,021019s014,021020s014,021021s014,021022s014,021023s014,021024s014,021025s014,021026s014,021027s014,021028s014,021029s014,021030s014,021031s014,021032s014,021033s014,021034s014,021035s014,021036s014,021037s014,021038s014,021039s014,021040s014,021041s014,021042s014,021043s014,021044s014,021045s014,021046s014,021047s014,021048s014,021049s014,021050s014,021051s014,021052s014,021053s014,021054s014,021055s014,021056s014,021057s014,021058s014,021059s014,021060s014,021061s014,021062s014,021063s014,021064s014,021065s014,021066s014,021067s014,021068s014,021069s014,021070s014,021071s014,021072s014,021073s014,021074s014,021075s014,021076s014,021077s014,021078s014,021079s014,021080s014,021081s014,021082s014,021083s014,021084s014,021085s014,021086s014,021087s014,021088s014,021089s014,021090s014,021091s014,021092s014,021093s014,021094s014,021095s014,021096s014,021097s014,021098s014,021099s014,021100s014labl.pdf>
[2] DrugPatentWatch.com. Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) Side Effects. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor/side-effects>