See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke [1]. Although Lipitor primarily targets enzymes in the liver responsible for producing cholesterol, long-term use of this medication may have indirect effects on various muscle groups.

Skeletal muscle:
Long-term Lipitor use has been associated with an increased risk of muscle-related side effects, including muscle pain, weakness, and, in rare cases, rhabdomyolysis [2]. Rhabdomyolysis is a serious condition characterized by the breakdown of muscle fibers, which can lead to kidney damage or failure [3]. However, it is important to note that the risk of rhabdomyolysis is low, and it is typically associated with higher doses of Lipitor or concomitant use of other medications that may interact with Lipitor [2].

Smooth muscle:
There is limited evidence suggesting that long-term Lipitor use may affect the function of smooth muscle in blood vessels [4]. Statins, such as Lipitor, have been shown to improve endothelial function and reduce arterial stiffness, which may be attributed to their effects on smooth muscle cells [5]. However, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of Lipitor on smooth muscle in the context of long-term use.

Cardiac muscle:
There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that long-term Lipitor use has a direct impact on cardiac muscle [6]. However, Lipitor has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation [7].

In summary, long-term Lipitor use may have indirect effects on skeletal muscle, potentially leading to muscle-related side effects such as pain, weakness, and, in rare cases, rhabdomyolysis. There is limited evidence suggesting that Lipitor may affect smooth muscle function in blood vessels, while its impact on cardiac muscle remains unclear.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK65891/
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rhabdomyolysis/symptoms-causes/syc-20372124
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3517443/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3517443/
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3517443/
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3517443/