Which medication is used to reduce cholesterol and has a side effect of rhabdomyolysis?

Lipitor, or atorvastatin, is a medication belonging to the class of statins, which are primarily used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Statins work by inhibiting an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a key role in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By effectively reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, atorvastatin helps in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

One notable side effect associated with the use of atorvastatin and other statins is rhabdomyolysis, a serious condition characterized by the breakdown of muscle tissue that leads to the release of myoglobin into the bloodstream. This can cause acute kidney injury and other complications. Rhabdomyolysis, although rare, can occur with statin therapy, especially at higher doses or in patients who are predisposed to muscle issues or who are taking certain drug combinations.

In contrast, the other medications mentioned do not primarily serve the purpose of cholesterol reduction or are not associated with rhabdomyolysis. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that prevents blood clot formation, aspirin is an anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet medication, and digoxin is used to treat heart failure and certain types of arrhythm