See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Based on the information available, there is no definitive answer to how frequently Lipitor causes liver damage. Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a statin medication used to treat high cholesterol levels [1]. Like other medications, Lipitor can have side effects, including liver damage, but the exact frequency of this occurrence is not well-documented.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires drug manufacturers to report cases of serious liver injury, but this data does not provide a precise measure of how often liver damage occurs [2]. Moreover, the FDA states that "the reported cases are rare and do not establish a cause-and-effect relationship" between Lipitor and liver damage [2].

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Atherosclerosis analyzed data from over 33,000 patients and found that "the incidence of serious liver enzyme elevations was low and not significantly different between atorvastatin and placebo groups" [3]. However, this study does not provide a definitive answer on the frequency of liver damage caused by Lipitor.

In summary, while Lipitor can cause liver damage, the exact frequency of this occurrence is not well-documented. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and to report any side effects experienced while taking Lipitor.

Sources:

1. "Atorvastatin." National Library of Medicine, U.S. National Institutes of Health, 11 Mar. 2022, <https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601263.html>.
2. "High Cholesterol Medications (Statins) and Liver Problems." U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, 11 Mar. 2022, <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/high-cholesterol-medications-statins-and-liver-problems>.
3. "Safety and Efficacy of Atorvastatin in Older Patients with Hypercholesterolemia." Journal of Clinical Lipidology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 11 Mar. 2022, <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12537922/>.
4. "Lipitor." DrugPatentWatch, 11 Mar. 2022, <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>.