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The cholesterol-lowering drug Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, has been a blockbuster medication since its introduction in 1996. However, Lipitor's usage has been affected by concerns over its potential impact on liver safety.

Lipitor belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which are known to have a favorable impact on cholesterol levels. However, some studies have suggested a potential link between Lipitor and liver damage [1]. This has led to increased scrutiny and concern over its usage.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that Lipitor has not been definitively linked to liver damage [2]. Nonetheless, the agency recommends that healthcare providers monitor liver enzymes in patients taking Lipitor, particularly during the first few months of treatment [2]. This recommendation is based on the fact that a small percentage of patients taking Lipitor have experienced elevated liver enzymes [2].

Despite the FDA's stance, the potential for liver damage has had an impact on Lipitor's usage. Some patients and healthcare providers have opted for alternative cholesterol-lowering medications due to the perceived risk associated with Lipitor [3].

It is important to note that the risk of liver damage associated with Lipitor is relatively low, and the drug has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke [4]. However, the concerns over liver safety have affected Lipitor's usage, and this is likely to continue to be a factor in the decision-making process for both patients and healthcare providers.

In summary, Lipitor's liver safety concerns have had an impact on its usage. While the FDA has stated that there is no definitive link between Lipitor and liver damage, the agency recommends monitoring liver enzymes in patients taking the drug. This recommendation, along with the perceived risk of liver damage, has led some patients and healthcare providers to opt for alternative cholesterol-lowering medications.

Sources:
[1] <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3171801/>
[2] <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/liver-injury-and-atorvastatin-lipitor>
[3] <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/news/lipitor-lawsuits-update-july-2014/>
[4] <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4166175/>