Long-Term Effects of Taking Lipitor

Lipitor is a prescription medication produced by Pfizer pharmaceuticals. Used to lower LDL cholesterol in the blood, it is commonly prescribed for people with Type II diabetes, at high risk for cardiovascular disease or over 55 years old. However, Lipitor can produce undesirable long term effects in certain individuals, and all Lipitor users should be carefully monitored by a healthcare professional to avoid these side effects from causing serious complications.

Muscle Cramps

• One of the most common long term effects of Lipitor is the development of painful muscle cramps after a year or two of use.

Skeletal Damage

• The active ingredient in Lipitor is atorvastatin calcium, a chemical compound known to damage skeletal tissue and increase bone fragility in certain patients.

Kidney Damage

• In some users, Lipitor can compromise kidney function and even cause kidney failure.

Compromised Liver Function

• Lipitor may compromise liver function in individuals who have diabetes, alcohol dependency or thyroid disease.

Birth Defects

• Birth defects and infant deformation are long term effects of Lipitor if the medication is taken by pregnant or nursing women.