What is a primary side effect of atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin, a member of the statin class of drugs, is primarily used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. One of the well-documented and significant side effects associated with atorvastatin, as well as other statins, is muscle pain or weakness, known as myopathy. This side effect can occur because statins can interfere with the production of certain substances that are crucial for muscle health and function. Patients may experience symptoms ranging from discomfort and mild soreness to more severe muscle problems like rhabdomyolysis, though the latter is rare.

In contrast, while headaches, nausea, and drowsiness can occur with various medications, these are not as specifically linked to atorvastatin. Headaches are common among many medications but do not point directly to the mechanism of how atorvastatin works. Nausea can also be a side effect of various drugs and medical conditions but is not a primary concern with atorvastatin use. Drowsiness is not a typical side effect of this medication, as statins are not known to cause sedation or fatigue.

Thus, muscle pain or weakness is the primary side effect associated with atorvastatin due to its effect on muscle tissue and the biochemical pathways involved in