Generic version: Lipitor is available in a generic form called atorvastatin. A generic drug is an exact copy of the active ingredient in a brand-name medication. Atorvastatin tablets are available as brand-name Lipitor and a generic. There's also a liquid form that only comes as brand name Atorvaliq. It's possible to have side effects like muscle pain, joint pain, and stomach upset. Most times, atorvastatin (Lipitor) is taken along with a heart-healthy diet to get the most benefits from treatment. Rosuvastatin (Crestor) and atorvastatin (Lipitor) are both statins that lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people at increased cardiovascular risk. Atorvastatin belongs to the group of medicines called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, or statins. It works by blocking an enzyme that is needed by the body to make cholesterol, and this reduces the amount of cholesterol in the blood. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. Atorvastatin is commonly used to lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL-C) and fats (triglycerides) in the blood. It also increases good cholesterol levels (HDL). Improving your cholesterol. Lipitor is a prescription medicine used to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other heart complications. Learn about dosage, side effects, drug interactions, warnings, and more. Lipitor is a statin drug used to lower LDL cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risk. The generic version of Lipitor is called atorvastatin, and it is available in doses of 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg.