Which adverse effect is least likely associated with Atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin is a member of the statin class of medications, primarily used to manage cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk. While various adverse effects may be associated with atorvastatin, cough is notably the least common among them.

Muscle pain is a well-documented side effect of statins, as they can cause myopathy and, in some cases, rhabdomyolysis. Diarrhea can also occur, though it may not be as frequent as muscle-related symptoms. Headaches are frequently reported by patients taking atorvastatin due to its central side effects and general impact on the body. In contrast, a cough is not typically associated with atorvastatin's mechanism of action or its pharmacological profile.

The absence of significant respiratory or pulmonary effects associated with atorvastatin contributes to the conclusion that cough is the least likely adverse effect. Statins primarily affect lipid metabolism and muscle tissue, making respiratory symptoms less relevant in this context. Therefore, understanding atorvastatin's side effects paints a clearer picture of why cough stands out as an outlier among the listed adverse reactions.