What are the common side effects of Lipitor. How can weight gain be managed while taking atorvastatin. What serious adverse reactions should patients be aware of when using Lipitor. How do Lipitor’s side effects compare between males and females. Does Lipitor dosage affect the risk of side effects.

Understanding Lipitor and Its Uses

Lipitor, also known by its generic name atorvastatin, is a widely prescribed medication used to treat high cholesterol and reduce certain heart risks. As a member of the statin class of drugs, Lipitor works by blocking an enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol, effectively lowering blood cholesterol levels.

The primary uses of Lipitor include:

• Lowering cholesterol levels in adults and some children
• Reducing heart risks in adults with high cholesterol
• Supporting diet and exercise in managing cholesterol

Lipitor comes in tablet form and is taken orally. While it is an effective medication for many patients, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects that may occur during treatment.

Common Side Effects of Lipitor

Like all medications, Lipitor can cause a range of side effects, from mild to more serious. Understanding these potential adverse reactions can help patients better manage their treatment and know when to seek medical attention.

Some of the most commonly reported side effects of Lipitor include:

• Infections (e.g., common cold, urinary tract infections)
• Nausea
• Pain in arms or legs
• Joint pain
• Diarrhea
• Mild muscle pain

These side effects are generally mild and often resolve on their own as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if these symptoms persist or become bothersome, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects and Risks

While less common, Lipitor can also cause more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include:

• Severe muscle pain
• Rhabdomyolysis (breakdown of muscle tissue)
• Immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (a rare muscle condition)
• Liver damage
• Severe allergic reactions

Is rhabdomyolysis a common side effect of Lipitor? Rhabdomyolysis is a rare but serious condition that can occur with statin use, including Lipitor. It involves the breakdown of muscle tissue, which can lead to kidney damage. While uncommon, patients should be aware of symptoms such as severe muscle pain, weakness, and dark-colored urine, and seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

Managing Weight Gain on Lipitor

Weight gain is not typically listed as a common side effect of Lipitor. However, some patients may experience changes in weight while taking the medication. This could be due to various factors, including lifestyle changes or other underlying health conditions.

How can patients manage their weight while taking Lipitor? Here are some strategies:

1. Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
2. Engage in regular physical activity, as recommended by your healthcare provider
3. Monitor your weight regularly and report significant changes to your doctor
4. Discuss any concerns about weight gain with your healthcare provider, who can evaluate if it’s related to Lipitor or other factors

Can Lipitor cause weight gain directly? While Lipitor itself is not known to cause weight gain, it’s important to note that individual responses to medications can vary. Some patients may experience indirect effects on weight due to changes in activity levels or dietary habits while taking the medication.

Comparing Side Effects: Brand Name vs. Generic

Patients often wonder if there’s a difference in side effects between brand-name Lipitor and its generic equivalent, atorvastatin. Generally, the side effect profile is similar for both versions of the medication, as they contain the same active ingredient.

Are there any differences in side effects between Lipitor and generic atorvastatin? While the active ingredient is the same, there may be slight variations in inactive ingredients between brand-name and generic versions. This could potentially lead to differences in how individuals tolerate the medication. However, these differences are typically minimal, and both versions are considered equally effective and safe when prescribed appropriately.

Key Points to Remember:

• The active ingredient (atorvastatin) is identical in both Lipitor and its generic version
• Side effects are generally similar between brand-name and generic versions
• Any differences in side effects are usually due to variations in inactive ingredients
• Consult with your healthcare provider if you’re considering switching between brand-name and generic versions

Gender Differences in Lipitor Side Effects

When it comes to the side effects of Lipitor, research has not shown significant differences between males and females. The medication’s impact on cholesterol levels and overall safety profile appears to be consistent across genders.

Do females experience different side effects from Lipitor compared to males? Based on clinical studies, there is no evidence to suggest that Lipitor causes gender-specific side effects. Both males and females may experience the common side effects associated with the medication, such as muscle pain, joint pain, or gastrointestinal issues.

However, it’s important to note that Lipitor is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus or infant. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should discuss alternative cholesterol management strategies with their healthcare provider.

Dosage and Side Effect Risk

The relationship between Lipitor dosage and side effect risk is an important consideration for patients and healthcare providers. Lipitor is available in several strengths, ranging from 10 mg to 80 mg.

Does a higher dose of Lipitor increase the risk of side effects? Generally, higher doses of medications can lead to an increased risk of side effects. This principle applies to Lipitor as well. Patients taking the maximum dose of 80 mg may have a higher likelihood of experiencing side effects compared to those on lower doses.

Dosage Considerations:

• 10 mg is often the starting dose for most patients
• 20 mg and 40 mg are intermediate doses
• 80 mg is the maximum recommended dose

It’s crucial to remember that dosing is individualized based on each patient’s specific needs, cholesterol levels, and response to treatment. Healthcare providers carefully consider the balance between efficacy and potential side effects when prescribing Lipitor.

Monitoring and Managing Side Effects

Proper monitoring and management of side effects are essential for patients taking Lipitor. This involves a collaborative effort between the patient and healthcare provider to ensure the medication’s benefits outweigh any potential risks.

How can patients effectively monitor and manage Lipitor side effects? Here are some key strategies:

1. Regular check-ups: Attend scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring cholesterol levels and overall health.
2. Blood tests: Periodic liver function tests may be recommended to check for any signs of liver damage.
3. Symptom awareness: Familiarize yourself with potential side effects and report any unusual symptoms to your doctor promptly.
4. Lifestyle modifications: Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen to support the medication’s effectiveness and minimize side effects.
5. Open communication: Discuss any concerns or questions about side effects with your healthcare provider.

What should patients do if they experience severe side effects from Lipitor? If severe side effects occur, such as intense muscle pain, signs of liver problems, or allergic reactions, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. In some cases, your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dosage or consider alternative treatments.

Tips for Managing Common Side Effects:

• Muscle pain: Gentle stretching, staying hydrated, and discussing CoQ10 supplements with your doctor may help.
• Nausea: Taking Lipitor with food or in the evening might reduce nausea symptoms.
• Joint pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers, as approved by your doctor, may provide relief.
• Infections: Maintain good hygiene practices and a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system.

Remember, while side effects can be concerning, it’s important not to discontinue Lipitor without consulting your healthcare provider. The benefits of managing cholesterol levels often outweigh the risks of side effects for many patients.

Alternatives and Complementary Approaches

For patients who experience significant side effects or are unable to tolerate Lipitor, there may be alternative approaches to managing cholesterol levels. It’s essential to explore these options under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

What alternatives are available for patients who can’t tolerate Lipitor? Some potential options include:

• Other statin medications: Different statins may have varying side effect profiles.
• Non-statin cholesterol medications: Such as ezetimibe, bile acid sequestrants, or PCSK9 inhibitors.
• Natural supplements: Some patients may explore options like red yeast rice or plant stanols/sterols, though efficacy and safety should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
• Intensive lifestyle modifications: Focusing on diet, exercise, and weight management can significantly impact cholesterol levels.

Can lifestyle changes reduce the need for Lipitor or lower the risk of side effects? Absolutely. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can complement Lipitor treatment or potentially reduce the required dosage, which may in turn lower the risk of side effects. Key lifestyle modifications include:

1. Following a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
2. Engaging in regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week
3. Maintaining a healthy weight or working towards weight loss if overweight
4. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
5. Managing stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices

It’s important to note that while lifestyle changes are crucial, they should not replace prescribed medication without medical supervision. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your treatment plan.

Long-term Considerations and Follow-up

Taking Lipitor is often a long-term commitment for managing cholesterol levels and reducing cardiovascular risk. As such, it’s important for patients to understand the long-term considerations and follow-up requirements associated with Lipitor use.

How often should patients on Lipitor have follow-up appointments? Typically, healthcare providers recommend:

• Initial follow-up: 4-12 weeks after starting Lipitor to assess effectiveness and tolerability
• Regular check-ups: Every 3-12 months, depending on individual risk factors and response to treatment
• Annual comprehensive evaluations: To review overall cardiovascular health and medication regimen

What long-term effects should patients be aware of when taking Lipitor? While Lipitor is generally well-tolerated, some long-term considerations include:

1. Liver health: Regular monitoring of liver function is important, especially in the first year of treatment.
2. Muscle effects: While rare, long-term use of statins like Lipitor may be associated with muscle-related side effects.
3. Diabetes risk: Some studies suggest a slightly increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes with long-term statin use, particularly in those already at risk.
4. Drug interactions: As patients age and potentially add new medications to their regimen, it’s crucial to review all drugs for potential interactions with Lipitor.

Can patients eventually stop taking Lipitor? The decision to continue or discontinue Lipitor should always be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. For many patients, the benefits of long-term statin therapy in preventing cardiovascular events outweigh the potential risks. However, treatment plans may be adjusted based on changes in health status, risk factors, or the development of side effects.

Key Points for Long-term Lipitor Use:

• Maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about any concerns or side effects
• Attend regular follow-up appointments and complete recommended blood tests
• Continue to practice heart-healthy lifestyle habits to complement medication therapy
• Stay informed about new research and guidelines related to cholesterol management and statin use

By understanding the potential side effects, management strategies, and long-term considerations associated with Lipitor use, patients can work effectively with their healthcare providers to optimize their treatment outcomes and overall cardiovascular health. Remember, the journey to managing cholesterol and reducing heart disease risk is a collaborative effort that often requires ongoing attention and care.

Lipitor Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a prescription drug that’s used to treat high cholesterol and reduce certain heart risks. Lipitor can cause side effects, also called adverse effects, that range from mild to serious. Examples include muscle pain and liver damage.

Lipitor is used along with diet and exercise to:

• lower cholesterol levels in adults and some children
• reduce other heart risks in adults with high cholesterol

The active ingredient in Lipitor is atorvastatin. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.) The drug comes as a tablet that you swallow.

Keep reading to learn about the common, mild, and serious side effects that Lipitor can cause. For a general overview of the drug, including details about its uses, see this article.

Some people may experience mild to serious side effects during Lipitor treatment. Examples of Lipitor’s commonly reported side effects include:

• infections, such as the common cold or urinary tract infection (UTI)
• nausea
• pain in your arms or legs
• joint pain*
• diarrhea*

* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects explained” section below.

Examples of mild side effects that have been reported with Lipitor include:

• infections, such as the common cold or urinary tract infection (UTI)
• pain in the legs or arms
• nausea
• mild muscle pain*
• joint pain*
• diarrhea*
• mild allergic reaction*

* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects explained” section below.

In most cases, these side effects are temporary. And some may be easily managed. But if you have any symptoms that are ongoing or bother you, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. And, do not stop taking Lipitor unless your doctor recommends it.

Lipitor may cause mild side effects other than the ones listed above. See the drug’s prescribing information for details.

Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks side effects of the medication. If you’d like to notify the FDA about a side effect you’ve had with Lipitor, visit MedWatch.

Serious side effects that have been reported with Lipitor include:

• serious muscle pain
• rhabdomyolysis, a serious condition caused by the breakdown of muscle
• immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy, a rare muscle condition
• liver damage*
• severe allergic reaction*†

* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects explained” section below.
† An allergic reaction is possible after using Lipitor. But it’s unclear whether this side effect occurred in studies.

If you develop serious side effects while taking Lipitor, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Get answers to some frequently asked questions about Lipitor’s side effects.

Do Lipitor and atorvastatin (generic name for Lipitor) have similar side effects?

Yes. Lipitor and its generic version, atorvastatin, typically have the same side effects. Both drugs contain the same active ingredient, which is atorvastatin. An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.

But the inactive ingredients in Lipitor and atorvastatin may be different. So it’s possible to have different side effects due to the inactive ingredients in these drugs.

If you’re interested in switching between the brand-name and generic forms of Lipitor, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can discuss with you possible differences in the generic’s side effects compared with Lipitor’s.

Is there any difference between the side effects Lipitor may cause in females and males?

No, Lipitor should not cause different side effects in females and males.* In studies of Lipitor, there weren’t differences in side effects in men compared with side effects in women.

It’s important to note that doctors may not prescribe Lipitor during pregnancy or breastfeeding. This is because the drug may cause other side effects while pregnant and breastfeeding. For more information, see the “Warnings for Lipitor” section below.

* In this article, we use the terms “male,” “female,” “men,” and “women” to refer to someone’s sex assigned at birth. For information about the difference between sex and gender, see this article.

Does my risk of side effects depend on what dose of Lipitor I take (10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg)?

It’s possible that the strength of Lipitor you take may change your risk of side effects. Lipitor is available in four strengths:

• 10 milligrams (mg)
• 20 mg
• 40 mg
• 80 mg

Taking a higher dose of Lipitor may increase the risk of side effects. So, if you’re taking a dose of 80 mg per day, your risk of side effects may be higher than that of someone taking a 10-mg dose.

If you’re having side effects from taking Lipitor, talk with your doctor. They can check whether your dose of Lipitor needs adjusting.

For more information about Lipitor’s dosages, see this article.

Are weight gain and hair loss side effects of Lipitor?

No, weight gain and hair loss are not side effects of Lipitor.

But there may be a link between taking statin medications such as Lipitor and an increase in appetite. An older study showed that people taking statins consumed more calories and fat than people not taking such drugs. So it is possible that this increase in appetite may lead to weight gain. But this was not reported in studies of the drug.

If you’re taking Lipitor to reduce your risk of heart problems due to type 2 diabetes, you may notice hair loss. This is because diabetes may increase the risk of hair loss in females and males.*

If you have weight gain or hair loss during your treatment with Lipitor, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to recommend ways to manage your weight gain or hair loss.

* In this article, we use the term “female” to refer to someone’s sex assigned at birth. For information about the difference between sex and gender, see this article.

Does Lipitor cause any eye-related side effects?

Although rare, it’s possible for Lipitor to cause blurry vision. This side effect was reported in studies of Lipitor.

In addition, eye-related side effects may be a symptom of another side effect that Lipitor causes. Lipitor can increase your risk of liver problems. One side effect of liver problems is yellowing of the eyes or skin.

If you have yellowing of the eyes or other eye-related changes while you’re taking Lipitor, contact your doctor. They can find out what may be causing your eye-related side effects and the best way to treat them.

Learn more about some of the side effects Lipitor may cause.

Muscle pain

You may develop muscle pain during treatment with Lipitor. Muscle pain was a common side effect reported in studies of the drug.

This side effect can be mild or severe. In some cases, muscle pain can also be a sign of a more serious side effect. Examples include rhabdomyolysis, a condition caused by the breakdown of muscle, and immune-mediating necrotizing myopathy, a rare muscle condition.

What might help

If you have muscle pain while taking Lipitor, talk with your doctor. They can determine what may be causing it.

If your muscle pain is mild, your doctor may recommend decreasing your Lipitor dose to see if the side effect lessens.

If you have severe muscle pain, contact your doctor as soon as possible. This may be a sign of a more serious condition. Your doctor might recommend that you stop taking Lipitor right away. And they’ll likely check you for rhabdomyolysis or immune-mediating necrotizing myopathy.

Liver damage

It’s possible to develop liver damage from taking statin medications such as Lipitor. Although liver damage was not a common side effect, it may still occur during Lipitor treatment.

Lipitor may cause increases in liver enzymes, which may indicate liver damage. Symptoms of liver damage include:

• yellowing of the eyes or skin
• belly pain
• nausea or vomiting

What might help

If you have any symptoms of liver damage during your treatment with Lipitor, tell your doctor right away. They can order blood tests to see how well your liver is working.

Your doctor will also check your liver function by ordering blood tests before you start taking Lipitor and throughout treatment.

If you develop increased liver enzymes or liver damage during treatment with Lipitor, your doctor may recommend decreasing your dose of Lipitor. Or they may pause your treatment until your liver enzyme levels increase to the point that it’s safe to resume treatment.

In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend that you take a different medication instead of Lipitor to treat your condition.

Joint pain

Lipitor can cause joint pain. This was one of the more common side effects reported in studies of Lipitor.

What might help

If you experience joint pain during your treatment with Lipitor, tell your doctor. They may be able to recommend ways to decrease this side effect. For example, they may suggest taking an over-the-counter pain medication, such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen).

Diarrhea

It’s possible that you may have diarrhea during Lipitor treatment. Diarrhea was a common side effect reported in studies of the drug.

Symptoms of diarrhea include:

• belly pain or cramping
• bloating
• watery stools
• having frequent bowel movements

What might help

If you have diarrhea while taking Lipitor, tell your doctor. They can determine whether Lipitor is causing your diarrhea and the best ways to treat it.

If you have diarrhea, it is important to stay hydrated. Your doctor or pharmacist may also be able to recommend other ways to treat your diarrhea. For example, they may recommend taking an over-the-counter medication such as Imodium (loperamide).

Allergic reaction

Like most drugs, Lipitor can cause an allergic reaction in some people. But it’s not clear whether this side effect occurred in studies.

Symptoms can be mild to serious and can include:

• skin rash
• itchiness
• flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)
• swelling under your skin, usually in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
• swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe

What might help

If you have mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may suggest a treatment to manage your symptoms. Examples include:

• an antihistamine you take by mouth, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
• a product you apply to your skin, such as hydrocortisone cream

If your doctor confirms you’ve had a mild allergic reaction to Lipitor, they’ll decide if you should continue using it.

If you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms could be life threatening and require immediate medical care.

If your doctor confirms you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to Lipitor, they may have you switch to a different treatment.

Keeping track of side effects

During your Lipitor treatment, consider taking notes on any side effects you’re having. You can then share this information with your doctor. This is especially helpful when you start taking new drugs or using a combination of treatments.

Your side effect notes can include things such as:

• what dose of the drug you were taking when you had the side effect
• how soon you had the side effect after starting that dose
• what your symptoms were
• how it affected your daily activities
• what other medications you were taking
• any other information you feel is important

Keeping notes and sharing them with your doctor will help them learn more about how Lipitor affects you. They can then use this information to adjust your treatment plan if needed.

Lipitor may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions. These are known as drug-condition interactions. Other factors may also affect whether Lipitor is a good treatment option for you.

Talk with your doctor about your health history before starting Lipitor. The list below includes factors to consider.

Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Lipitor or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe Lipitor. Ask them what other medications are better options for you.

Diabetes. It’s possible that Lipitor may worsen diabetes. If you have diabetes, tell your doctor before starting treatment with Lipitor. Your doctor can determine if it’s safe for you to take the drug. Or they may recommend a different treatment option for you.

Thyroid problems. People with certain thyroid problems may have an increased risk of side effects, such as muscle pain, from taking Lipitor. Before you start taking Lipitor, tell your doctor about any thyroid problems that you have. Your doctor can help treat your thyroid condition before Lipitor treatment.

Kidney problems. Lipitor can cause muscle problems, which in rare cases may lead to kidney problems. If you already have kidney problems, taking this medication may worsen your condition. Your doctor can determine if it’s safe for you to take Lipitor with your kidney condition.

Stroke or mini-stroke in the last 6 months. Taking Lipitor after having a stroke or mini-stroke in the last 6 months may increase your risk of having another stroke. If you’ve had a recent stroke or mini-stroke, tell your doctor before starting treatment with Lipitor.

Liver problems. People with liver problems should not use Lipitor due to the risk of harm. Lipitor may cause liver problems to occur. If you already have a liver problem, taking this drug may worsen your condition. Due to this risk, your doctor will likely recommend a different treatment option for you.

Alcohol and Lipitor

There aren’t any known interactions between Lipitor and alcohol. But alcohol and Lipitor can both cause liver damage. So drinking alcohol while taking Lipitor may further increase the risk of liver problems.

If you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor about how much alcohol, if any, may be safe to drink during Lipitor treatment.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Lipitor

Lipitor may not be safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Currently, there is not enough information to determine if Lipitor affects a developing fetus, but it is possible. So, your doctor may not prescribe the drug during pregnancy.

It’s also unknown if Lipitor passes into breast milk or affects a child who is breastfed. Due to the possible risks, your doctor may advise you to avoid breastfeeding while taking Lipitor.

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding or planning to become pregnant or breastfeed, tell your doctor before starting Lipitor treatment. They can help you understand the risks of taking Lipitor during these times. They may also recommend a different treatment option for you.

You may have side effects during your treatment with Lipitor. In most cases, its side effects are mild. But it’s possible to develop serious side effects from this medication.

Before you start treatment with Lipitor, talk with your doctor about side effects that could occur. Here are some questions to help get you started:

• Can Lipitor cause long-term side effects?
• Do I have an increased risk of Lipitor’s side effects due to my other medical conditions?
• How do the side effects of Lipitor compare with those of other drugs used to treat my condition?
• What should I do if I become pregnant during treatment with Lipitor?

To learn more about Lipitor, see these articles:

• All About Lipitor
• Dosage for Lipitor: What You Need to Know
• Lipitor Interactions: Alcohol, Medications, and Others
• Lipitor vs. Crestor: What You Should Know

To get information on different conditions and tips for improving your health, subscribe to any of Healthline’s newsletters. You may also want to check out the online communities at Bezzy. It’s a place where people with certain conditions can find support and connect with others.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Statins and Weight Gain | Cardiology | JAMA Internal Medicine

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Editor’s Note

July 2014

Rita F.  Redberg, MD, MSc

JAMA Intern Med. 2014;174(7):1046. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2014.1994

There remains much controversy over the risks and benefits of statins for primary prevention. Besides the risks of muscle aches, diabetes, and cognitive dysfunction, I have observed over the years that for many patients, statins provide a false reassurance, as people seem to believe that statins can compensate for poor dietary choices and a sedentary life. In an elegantly performed analysis of NHANES data from 1999 to 2010, Sugiyama and colleagues¹ have documented exactly such behavior. They found that compared with statin nonusers, statin users significantly increased their fat intake and calorie consumption, along with their BMI, in the last decade. This article raises concerns of a potential moral hazard of statin use, in addition to the already known adverse effects. Focusing on cholesterol levels can be distracting from the more beneficial focus on healthy lifestyle to reduce heart disease risk.

References

1.

Sugiyama
 T, Tsugawa
 Y, Tseng
 C-H, Kobayashi
 Y, Shapiro
 MF.  Different time trends of caloric and fat intake between statin users and nonusers among US adults: gluttony in the time of statins? [published online April 24, 2014].  JAMA Intern Med. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2014.1927.Google Scholar

Lipitor, 80 mg tablets, 30 pcs,

Composition

Atorvastatin, excipients.

Pharmacological action

Hypolipidemic.

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

Pharmacodynamics

The drug belongs to the group statins . It acts selectively and competitively with respect to the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase , converting coenzyme A into mevalonic acid , which belongs to the precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. In the liver cholesterol and TG are incorporated into VLDL, after which they enter the bloodstream and are transported to peripheral tissues. In the future, VLDL is transformed into LDL.

Lipitor significantly reduces the content of cholesterol and lipoproteins in the blood of patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia , not amenable to treatment with lipid-lowering drugs. The drug does not have a carcinogenic and mutagenic effect.

Pharmacokinetics

Lipitor is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, Cmax in the blood is reached after 2 hours. Relative bioavailability – 95%. Metabolized in the liver with the participation of CYP3A4 to pharmacologically active ortho / para-hydroxylated metabolites. Eliminated with bile.

Indications for use

• Primary hypercholesterolemia various types, mixed hyperlipidemia ;
• As a dietary supplement for homo/heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia ;
• In diseases of the cardiovascular system, accompanied by dyslipidemia ;
• To prevent myocardial infarction and reduce the risk of death.

Contraindications

High sensitivity to Lipitor, liver disease with severe dysfunction, pregnancy, lactation. Take with caution in patients with electrolyte imbalance, arterial hypotension , with acute infections, alcoholism, convulsive syndrome, surgical interventions.

Side effects

Nausea, dry mouth, abdominal pain, vomiting, emotional lability, insomnia, asthenia , dizziness, headache, drowsiness, malaise, peripheral neuropathy ataxia , paresthesia , hyperesthesia , hyperkinesis , depression, loss of consciousness, disturbance of accommodation, glaucoma, conjunctival dryness, tinnitus, loss of taste, postural hypotension, arrhythmia, increased blood pressure, vasodilatation , phlebitis , palpitations, migraine, anemia , thrombocytopenia , rhinitis, bronchitis, pancreatitis, anorexia , flatulence , leg muscle cramps, myalgia , bursitis, myositis, muscular hypertension, arthralgia , joint contractures, peripheral edema, impotence, vaginal bleeding, decreased libido , nephritis , epididymitis, increased sweating, eczema, alopecia, seborrhea, photosensitivity , hyperglycemia , albuminuria, weight gain.

Lipitor instructions for use (Method and dosage)

Lipitor tablets are taken orally, regardless of the meal time, at any time of the day. The initial dosage is 10 mg 1 time per day. The maximum daily dose is 80 mg. Treatment should be carried out against the background of compliance with the hypocholesterolemic diet .

Overdose

When taking the drug in high doses, liver dysfunction and development of rhabdomyolysis .

Interaction

The use of cytochrome CYP3A4 inhibitors leads to an increase in the concentration of the active substance in the blood. The risk of myopathy increases when administered with cyclosporine, erythromycin, fibrates , clarithromycin, antifungal azoles, nicotinamide. For example, the appointment of itraconazole entails an increase in the concentration of atorvastatin by 3 times, with erythromycin – by 40%.

With the simultaneous administration of digoxin, its concentration increases by 20%. The concentration of oral contraceptives also increases.

Antacids containing magnesium and aluminum reduce concentration, but this does not affect the reduction of cholesterol levels .

Conditions of sale

Prescription.

Storage conditions

Temperature up to 25°C.

Shelf life

2 years.

Brand:

Phizer

Brand:

GERMANY

Active ingredient ENG:

atorvastatin

Barcode: 9000 5

8699532095541

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Medicines that can make you gain weight

Taking medicines that your doctor prescribes for you for one reason or another can be accompanied by side effects that are not always desirable. Unfortunately, doctors do not always warn about what medications can lead to, and many would like to know what to expect from a course of medications.

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The fight against excess weight

Medications

hypertension

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One of the most common drug side effects is weight gain. Let’s make a reservation right away – this does not happen for everyone and not always, but you can be one of those “lucky ones” who really put on weight.

We talk about drugs that can cause weight gain. We are sure that it is better to know and take some steps in advance so as not to gain weight than to accidentally discover an extra 3-5, or even 10 kg, gained over several weeks of taking the drug.

In general, it would be absolutely useful to discuss with the doctor all the possible “side effects” that the prescribed medicine can cause in order to take timely action. This, however, applies to any side effects, and not just those associated with weight. In some cases, undesirable effects are inevitable, but there are situations when their occurrence can be completely avoided or at least made less pronounced.

Steroids

Steroid preparations can be prescribed for various diseases. They make it quite easy to achieve an improvement in the condition, but the treatment is often accompanied by an undesirable effect, including insomnia, increased appetite and swelling. All this is the perfect combo for those extra pounds to literally stick in strategic places. It is important that steroids are available in different forms – these can be ointments and creams, sprays, as well as tablets. The latter just cause weight gain the most. You can reduce your chances of gaining weight by choosing the lowest possible dose for you, as well as adjusting your diet and choosing the ideal sleep pattern for you.

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Antidepressants

Many people say that you can gain weight on antidepressants. Fortunately, not everyone is gaining it, although this, of course, is quite real. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors pose the greatest danger in this regard, so if you are taking drugs whose active ingredient belongs to this class of substances, be careful.

The fact is that such drugs not only improve your mood and help you feel less depressed, but also increase your appetite. And here the connection is quite obvious: you want to eat more – you eat more – your weight increases.

If you are prone to weight gain, then discuss with your doctor in advance that you are worried about the fact that he will become more – it is likely that he will be able to choose another suitable drug for you.

Birth control pills

Oral contraceptives have many side effects, some of which are quite pleasant and desirable. But, let’s not hide, weight gain is not included in this list for everyone.

It works like this: progesterone, which is part of birth control pills, increases appetite, which causes women to eat more and gain weight. Another possible mechanism is that while taking contraceptives, the body begins to more actively retain water, and the weight also goes up because of this.

Antihistamines

Popular antihistamine-based allergy medications are most often not available by prescription. They can be prescribed by a doctor, but many people buy these drugs on their own initiative and choose the dosage on their own.

In addition to the fact that the selection of medicines still has to be handled by a specialist, there is another danger. All the same kilograms that you can gain. Taking allergy medications frequently can lead to weight gain. This happens more often in women than in men. If you notice that you are really gaining weight on the background of a course of antihistamines, but at least try to change the dosage form: the spray in this case will be much less dangerous than tablets.

Blood pressure medications

Medicines prescribed for hypertension, such as beta-blockers and angiotensin receptor blockers, also affect weight. Unfortunately, in the case of such drugs, the choice is not too rich. There is nothing to replace them and cancel, most likely, the doctor will not allow. And this means that in order to prevent gaining extra pounds, you will have to carefully monitor your lifestyle, adjust your diet and try to introduce at least a minimum of physical activity into your daily routine.