What are the common side effects of Lipitor 20 mg. How can patients manage nausea and indigestion caused by atorvastatin. What serious side effects require immediate medical attention when taking Lipitor. How does alcohol consumption affect the risk of atorvastatin side effects.

Understanding Atorvastatin: Lipitor’s Active Ingredient

Atorvastatin, commonly known by its brand name Lipitor, is a widely prescribed medication belonging to the statin class. These drugs are primarily used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. While atorvastatin is generally well-tolerated, it’s crucial for patients to be aware of potential side effects, particularly when taking the 20 mg dosage.

Is atorvastatin safe for everyone? While it’s generally considered safe, individual responses can vary. Some people may experience side effects, while others may not. It’s essential to discuss your medical history and any concerns with your healthcare provider before starting atorvastatin treatment.

Common Side Effects of Lipitor 20 mg

Atorvastatin can cause several common side effects that affect more than 1 in 100 people. These side effects often improve after the first few days as the body adjusts to the medication. Let’s explore these common side effects and strategies to manage them:

Nausea and Indigestion

How can patients manage nausea and indigestion caused by atorvastatin? To alleviate these symptoms:

• Stick to simple, non-spicy meals
• Take atorvastatin after eating
• Consider using an over-the-counter antacid (consult your pharmacist)
• Contact your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen after a few days

Headaches

Headaches are another common side effect of Lipitor. To manage headaches:

• Rest and stay hydrated
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your pharmacist
• Consult your doctor if headaches persist beyond the first week or become severe

Nosebleeds

For those experiencing nosebleeds while taking atorvastatin:

1. Sit down and lean forward
2. Tilt your head forward
3. Pinch your nose just above the nostrils for 10-15 minutes
4. Breathe through your mouth
5. Apply an ice pack to the bridge of your nose

Sore Throat

To alleviate sore throat symptoms:

• Gargle with warm, salty water (adults only)
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers
• Stay hydrated and opt for cool, soft foods
• Avoid smoking and smoky environments
• Seek medical advice if symptoms persist for over a week

Cold-like Symptoms

For runny nose, blocked nose, or sneezing:

• Rest and keep warm
• Stay hydrated
• Use over-the-counter cold medicines and decongestants as recommended by your pharmacist

Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and Flatulence

To manage constipation and excessive gas:

• Increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and cereals
• Drink plenty of water
• Consider peppermint tea for flatulence relief
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Consult your healthcare provider if symptoms persist

Diarrhea

When experiencing diarrhea while on atorvastatin:

• Stay hydrated with water or electrolyte solutions
• Watch for signs of dehydration (decreased urination, dark urine)
• Avoid self-medicating without consulting a healthcare professional
• Be aware of potential interactions with contraceptive pills if diarrhea is severe

Serious Side Effects Requiring Immediate Attention

While rare, some side effects of Lipitor 20 mg can be serious and require immediate medical attention. Patients should stop taking atorvastatin and seek medical help if they experience:

• Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, or cramps (potential signs of muscle breakdown and kidney damage)
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin, pale stools, or dark urine (possible indicators of liver problems)
• Skin rash with pink or red blotches, especially on the palms or soles (may indicate erythema multiforme)
• Severe stomach pain (potential sign of acute pancreatitis)
• Persistent cough, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss (possible lung disease symptoms)

How quickly should patients seek medical attention for these serious side effects? It’s crucial to contact healthcare services immediately upon noticing any of these symptoms. Prompt medical intervention can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

The Impact of Alcohol on Atorvastatin Side Effects

Does alcohol consumption affect the risk of atorvastatin side effects? Regular and excessive alcohol intake can indeed increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects from Lipitor, particularly liver problems. Patients taking atorvastatin should be mindful of their alcohol consumption and discuss safe limits with their healthcare provider.

Allergic Reactions to Lipitor: Recognizing Anaphylaxis

Although rare, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to atorvastatin can occur. What are the signs of a serious allergic reaction to Lipitor? Patients should be aware of the following symptoms and seek immediate emergency medical care if they experience:

• Skin rash (itchy, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling)
• Wheezing
• Chest or throat tightness
• Difficulty breathing or speaking
• Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Patients experiencing these symptoms should call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department without delay.

Modifying Atorvastatin Treatment: When and How

Should patients stop taking Lipitor if they experience side effects? It’s crucial not to discontinue atorvastatin without consulting a healthcare provider. Many side effects are temporary and can be managed effectively. If side effects are persistent or bothersome, doctors may consider:

• Lowering the dosage
• Switching to a different statin medication
• Exploring alternative cholesterol-lowering strategies

How can patients discuss side effects with their healthcare provider? Be prepared to describe the symptoms in detail, including their duration, severity, and impact on daily life. This information helps doctors make informed decisions about treatment modifications.

Long-term Use of Atorvastatin: Monitoring and Precautions

For patients on long-term atorvastatin therapy, regular monitoring is essential to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and detect any potential issues early. What should long-term Lipitor users be aware of?

• Regular liver function tests to monitor for potential liver problems
• Periodic blood tests to check cholesterol levels and adjust dosage if necessary
• Awareness of potential drug interactions with new medications
• Vigilance for any new or worsening side effects

How often should patients on long-term atorvastatin therapy have check-ups? The frequency of monitoring may vary based on individual health factors, but typically, patients should have liver function tests performed before starting treatment, 12 weeks after initiation, and periodically thereafter as recommended by their healthcare provider.

Lifestyle Modifications to Complement Atorvastatin Treatment

While atorvastatin is effective in managing cholesterol levels, combining medication with lifestyle changes can enhance its benefits and potentially reduce the risk of side effects. What lifestyle modifications can support Lipitor treatment?

• Adopting a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
• Engaging in regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week)
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices

How do these lifestyle changes interact with atorvastatin treatment? A healthy lifestyle can enhance the cholesterol-lowering effects of Lipitor, potentially allowing for lower medication doses and reducing the risk of side effects. Moreover, these habits contribute to overall cardiovascular health, complementing the benefits of statin therapy.

Alternative Cholesterol Management Strategies

For individuals who cannot tolerate atorvastatin or experience significant side effects, alternative approaches to managing cholesterol levels may be considered. What options are available for those who can’t take Lipitor?

• Other statin medications with different chemical structures
• Non-statin cholesterol-lowering drugs (e.g., ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors)
• Bile acid sequestrants
• Omega-3 fatty acid supplements
• Plant sterols and stanols
• Intensive lifestyle modifications

How effective are these alternatives compared to atorvastatin? The effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and the specific alternative chosen. Some options may be less potent than Lipitor in lowering LDL cholesterol but may be better tolerated. Healthcare providers can help determine the most appropriate alternative based on a patient’s specific health profile and risk factors.

In conclusion, while Lipitor 20 mg is an effective medication for managing cholesterol levels, it’s essential for patients to be aware of potential side effects and know how to manage them. By understanding the risks, recognizing warning signs, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, patients can maximize the benefits of atorvastatin therapy while minimizing potential complications. Remember, individual responses to medication can vary, and personalized medical advice is crucial for optimal treatment outcomes.

Side effects of atorvastatin – NHS

Like all medicines, atorvastatin can cause side effects in some people, but not everybody gets them. Different statins affect people in different ways.

Some side effects may improve after the first few days, as your body gets used to the medicine.

Common side effects

These common side effects of atorvastatin happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Feeling sick (nausea) or indigestion

Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food. It might help to take your atorvastatin after a meal or snack.

If you continue to get symptoms of indigestion, ask your pharmacist to recommend an antacid. Contact your doctor if your symptoms continue for more than a few days or if they get worse.

Headaches

Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. It’s best not to drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller.

Headaches should usually go away after the first week of taking atorvastatin. Talk to your doctor if they last longer than a week or are severe.

Nosebleeds

If you get a nosebleed, sit down and lean forward, with your head tilted forward. Pinch your nose just above your nostrils for 10 to 15 minutes and breathe through your mouth. You could also try holding an icepack (or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel) on the top of your nose to help reduce the blood flow.

Sore throat

If you have a sore throat, try gargling with warm, salty water (children should not try this), or ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller to ease any pain or discomfort. Drink plenty of water, eat cool or soft foods, and avoid smoking or smoky places.

If the symptoms last longer than a week ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.

Cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, blocked nose or sneezing

Make sure you rest, keep yourself warm and drink plenty of fluids. Your pharmacist can recommend a suitable cold medicine and a decongestant spray or tablets to help relieve a blocked nose.

Constipation or farting (flatulence)

Try to eat smaller meals, eat more high-fibre foods such as fresh fruit, vegetables and cereals, and drink plenty of water. Drinking peppermint tea can be helpful for farting. Try to exercise more regularly, for example, by going for a daily walk or run.

If this does not help, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

Diarrhoea

Drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee. Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

If you take contraceptive pills and you have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

If this advice does not help and any of these side effects continue or bother you, keep taking the medicine, but tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Stop taking atorvastatin and contact 111 or call your doctor if:

• you get unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness or cramps – these can be signs of muscle breakdown and kidney damage
• the whites of your eyes turn yellow, or your skin turns yellow, although this may be less obvious on brown or black skin, or if you have pale poo and dark pee – these can be signs of liver problems
• you get a skin rash with pink or red blotches, especially on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet – this could be a sign of erythema multiforme
• you have severe stomach pain – this can be a sign of acute pancreatitis
• you have a cough, feel short of breath, and are losing weight – this can be a sign of lung disease

Go to 111. nhs.uk or call 111.

Drinking a lot of alcohol regularly increases the chance of you having side effects with atorvastatin, and liver problems.

If you think that atorvastatin is causing side effects and they’re making you want to stop taking it, talk to your doctor first. They may be caused by another problem and not the medicine. Your doctor may suggest lowering your dose or changing your medicine.

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to atorvastatin.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:

• you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
• you’re wheezing
• you get tightness in the chest or throat
• you have trouble breathing or talking
• your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling

You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

Other side effects

These are not all the side effects of atorvastatin. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

Page last reviewed: 7 March 2022

Next review due: 7 March 2025

Lipitor Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

Atorvastatin is used along with a proper diet to help lower “bad” cholesterol and fats (such as LDL, triglycerides) and raise “good” cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. It belongs to a group of drugs known as “statins.” It works by reducing the amount of cholesterol made by the liver. Lowering “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides and raising “good” cholesterol decreases the risk of heart disease and helps prevent strokes and heart attacks. In addition to eating a proper diet (such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet), other lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor for more details.

How to use Lipitor

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking atorvastatin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

If you also take certain other drugs to lower your cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take atorvastatin at least 1 hour before or at least 4 hours after taking these medications. These products can react with atorvastatin, preventing its full absorption.

Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol or triglycerides do not feel sick.

It is very important to continue to follow your doctor’s advice about diet and exercise. It may take up to 4 weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.

Side Effects

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very small number of people taking atorvastatin may have mild memory problems or confusion. If these rare effects occur, talk to your doctor.

Rarely, statins may cause or worsen diabetes. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks.

This drug may rarely cause muscle problems (which can rarely lead to very serious conditions called rhabdomyolysis and autoimmune myopathy). Tell your doctor right away if you develop any of these symptoms during treatment and if these symptoms last after your doctor stops this drug: muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness), signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).

This medication may rarely cause liver problems. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of liver problems, including: nausea/vomiting that doesn’t stop, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, stomach/abdominal pain.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking atorvastatin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, alcohol use.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Limit alcoholic beverages. Daily use of alcohol may increase your risk for liver problems, especially when combined with atorvastatin. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially muscle problems.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

See also How to Use section.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: daptomycin, gemfibrozil.

Other medications can affect the removal of atorvastatin from your body, which may affect how atorvastatin works. Examples include glecaprevir plus pibrentasvir, telithromycin, ritonavir, among others.

Do not take any red yeast rice products while you are taking atorvastatin because some red yeast rice products may also contain a statin called lovastatin. Taking atorvastatin and red yeast rice products together can increase your risk of serious muscle and liver problems.

Does Lipitor interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Do not share this medication with others.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood cholesterol/triglyceride levels, liver function) should be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Lipitor 80 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: ellipticalImprint: PD 158 80

This medicine is a white, elliptical, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “PD 158” and “80”.

Lipitor 20 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: ellipticalImprint: PD 156 20

This medicine is a white, elliptical, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “PD 158” and “80”.

Lipitor 10 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: ellipticalImprint: PD 155 10

This medicine is a white, elliptical, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “PD 158” and “80”.

Lipitor 40 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: ellipticalImprint: 40 PD 157

This medicine is a white, elliptical, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “PD 158” and “80”.

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Possible side effects of Lipitor and other statins

Disclaimer

If you have any medical questions or concerns, contact your doctor. Articles in the Health Guide are based on peer-reviewed research and information from medical societies and government agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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Side effects of prescription drugs are treated the same as nutrition information for packaged snacks. Both are listed on a tiny sheet of paper, and although they are important, some people don’t even check them. We could all probably do without snacks, but drugs are trickier, especially when it comes to statins. Yes, these drugs have potential side effects, such as muscle pain and stomach upset, but they have very large health benefits.

Vitals

• Lipitor is a statin drug designed to lower bad cholesterol levels in people at risk for heart disease.
• The most common side effects of Lipitor are diarrhea, muscle pain and cold symptoms.
• Lipitor and the generic form of atorvastatin can cause severe muscle and liver damage in some cases.
• Talk to your doctor about other medicines you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart attacks and strokes, is a major problem worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 17.9 million deaths in 2016 alone (WHO, 2017). Statins, such as the brand-name drug Lipitor, are a class of drugs aimed at lowering high cholesterol levels in people at risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Elevated cholesterol, especially LDL cholesterol, is one of the six major risk factors for cardiovascular disease (Texas Heart Institute 2020).

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According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over ¼ of all Americans over 40 are taking cholesterol-lowering medications, and 93% of them are taking statins (CDC, 2015). And not without reason. Not only do they lower LDL levels, but they also fulfill their promise to reduce the chance of a stroke or heart attack. One study followed patients for over 20 years and showed that they had a 28% reduction in high bad cholesterol levels after sequential statin treatment (Vallejo-Vaz 2017).

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While statins are a proven way to reduce heart disease, they can cause some unpleasant side effects. Here’s what you need to know about Lipitor’s potential side effects.

Possible side effects of Lipitor and other types of statins

The most well-known side effect of statins may be muscle pain, but it turns out that not all statins are the same. Some of them (eg, atorvastatin, brand name Lipitor) penetrate muscle tissue more easily, making them more likely to cause muscle damage than other statins (eg, Crestor and Pravachol) (Mendez 2014).

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Other common side effects of Lipitor include cold symptoms, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, gas, headache, heartburn, joint pain, nausea, pain in the extremities, and elevated blood sugar. More serious side effects are possible, such as muscle problems and liver problems, but these can be alleviated by dosage adjustments made by a physician (Pfizer, 2019G. ). For patients older than 75 with high cholesterol and those with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), or high triglycerides, combination therapies containing statins and other cholesterol-lowering drugs, such as the drug ezetimibe (brand name Zetia) may be a good option for controlling high cholesterol while reducing statin dosage and preventing unwanted side effects (Bach 2019; Backes, 2005).

You should not take statins if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Putting side effects in context

Your expectations about statins can affect your experience while taking them, so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about using statins. In blinded studies in which participants did not know whether they were receiving statins or placebo, the incidence of side effects was low. But when observational studies are done and participants know they are taking statins, the rate of reported side effects is much higher (Gupta 2017).

In fact, when researchers only looked at blinded studies, participants taking atorvastatin (Lipitor) experienced muscle side effects and erectile dysfunction at the same rate as participants taking placebo. Those who took Lipitor also reported fewer sleep disturbances than people who took placebo. The only significant difference the researchers found was that Lipitor was more likely to cause kidney problems than placebo (Gupta, 2017).

Ezetimibe (brand name Zetia) for high cholesterol

5 minutes to read

Researchers call this the nocebo effect. This is similar to the placebo effect, which is when you take advantage of a drug that you are not actually taking. Since these benefits cannot be attributed to the remedy, it is due to the patient’s belief in the treatment. With a nocebo effect, patients experience side effects that cannot be attributed to the drug. Instead, researchers suggest that these side effects occur because people expect them, based on exaggerated reports about this prescription drug (Gupta, 2017). Working closely with your healthcare provider to study statin therapy can improve your experience with this medication.

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When to Seek Medical Care

Do not take statins if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the medicine. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, rash, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately (Pfizer, 2012). If you have liver problems, be sure to check with your doctor before you start taking statins.

Seek medical attention if you experience muscle problems or abnormal fatigue with no apparent cause. Muscle weakness or soreness for no reason can be a sign of rhabdomyolysis, which is the breakdown of muscle tissue. In addition to muscle pain and weakness, some people may experience dark urine, abdominal pain, confusion, nausea, or vomiting. Because this condition can be dangerous, it’s important to see your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms while taking statins.

Things to avoid while taking Lipitor

Because Lipitor can interact with other medicines, you should talk to your healthcare professional about any prescription medicine you plan to take, including supplements and herbal medicines.

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Your healthcare provider may recommend avoiding grapefruit juice while taking statins. This citrus fruit contains furanocoumarins, a family of chemicals that inactivate an enzyme in our digestive system called CYP3A4 (Bailey 2013). This enzyme is thought to process statins, and if it is inactivated by grapefruit juice, people taking statins will have higher blood levels of the drug. While past research has diverged on how much grapefruit or grapefruit juice causes this effect, the current consensus is that drinking 8 ounces or less of grapefruit juice per day while on statins is generally considered normal (Reddy, 2011; UpToDate, 2020) .

Lipitor and grapefruit: how dangerous is it to mix them?

4 min read

Because the US Food and Drug Administration suggests that you should not drink grapefruit juice if you are taking statins such as Lipitor, on the grounds that different people may respond differently to the combination, consult with your physician to make a decision that is right for you (FDA 2017).

Some medicines, including medicines that also lower cholesterol, may increase the risk of side effects caused by statins such as atorvastatin. Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you take.

Cyclosporine and some HIV drugs can also increase blood levels of statins, increasing the risk of side effects such as muscle damage (Pfizer, 2012; Fukazawa, 2004). They increase this risk because, like grapefruit juice, these drugs interfere with the normal function of CYP3A4, which processes statins.

Some medications used to lower high cholesterol may also increase the risk of side effects when combined with Lipitor (Pfizer, 2019). This includes fibrates (eg, gemfibrozil) and doses of niacin that can affect lipid levels. In some cases, the benefits of combining these drugs outweigh the risks. The healthcare professional will weigh these factors to determine if this combination therapy is necessary.

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People who take birth control pills and Lipitor may have higher levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body. For this reason, your healthcare provider may work with you to find a form of birth control that does not interact with Lipitor (FDA, 2019).

References

1. Bach, R. G., Cannon, K. P., Giugliano, R. P., White, J. A., Lokhnygina, Yu., Bogula, E. A.,. . . Flaming, M.A. (2019). The effect of simvastatin-ezetimibe compared with simvastatin monotherapy after acute coronary syndrome in patients aged 75 years and older. JAMA Cardiology, 4(9), 846-854. DOI: 10.1001 / jamacardio.2019.2306. Retrieved from https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamacardiology/fullarticle/2738104
2. Backes, J. M., Gibson, C. A., and Howard, P. A. (2005). Optimal lipid modification: Rationale for combination therapy. Vascular Health and Risk Management, 1(4), 317-331. DOI: 10.2147 / vhrm.2005.1.4.317. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1993967/
3. Bailey D., Dresser G. and Arnold J. (2013, March 5). Grapefruit Drug Interactions: Forbidden Fruit or Avoidable Consequences? Retrieved July 29, 2020, from https://www.cmaj.ca/content/185/4/309
4. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2014, December 16). Statins. Retrieved July 31, 2020, from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/statins
5. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2017, July 18). Grapefruit juice and some medicines should not be mixed. received 29July 2020, from https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/grapefruit-juice-and-some-drugs-dont-mix
6. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) . (2018, June 01). Facts about generics. Retrieved August 9, 2020, from https://www.fda. gov/drugs/generic-drugs/generic-drug-facts
7. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2019, April). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium) Label. Extracted from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/020702s073lbl.pdf
8. Fukazawa I., Uchida N., Uchida E. and Yasuhara H. (2004). Effect of grapefruit juice on the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin and pravastatin in Japanese. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 57(4), 448-455. DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2125.2003.02030.x. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15025743/
9. Gupta, A., Thompson, D., Whitehouse, A., Collier, T., Dahlof, B., Poulter, N., . . . Sever P. (2017). Adverse events associated with non-blinded but non-blinded statin therapy in the Anglo-Scandinavian Heart Outcome Study – Lipid Lowering Arm (ASCOT-LLA): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study and its non-randomized, non-blinded phase extension. Lancet, 389(10088), 2473-2481. DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(17)31075-9. Retrieved from https://www. thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2817%2931075-9/fulltext?elsca1=tlpr
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Pravastatin vs Lipitor: Differences, Similarities and Which is Best for You – Drug Vs. Friend

Home >> Drug Vs. Friend >> Pravastatin vs Lipitor: Differences, Similarities and Which is Best for You

Drug Vs. Friend

Drug Overview and Key Differences | Conditions of treatment | Efficiency | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug Interactions | Warnings | Frequently Asked Questions

Pravastatin and Lipitor (Atorvastatin) are prescription drugs used to treat high cholesterol. Higher than normal cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart and vascular disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Cholesterol is primarily produced in the liver by the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase.

Pravastatin and atorvastatin are drugs that are classified as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. Pravastatin and atorvastatin, also known as statins, inhibit or block the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, which leads to a decrease in the production of cholesterol in the liver. Statin use also increases the number of LDL (low density lipoprotein) receptors in the liver, which helps lower blood levels of LDL or bad cholesterol.

Both pravastatin and atorvastatin work in the same way, but they have some differences to be aware of.

What are the main differences between Pravastatin and Lipitor?

Pravastatin is the generic name for pravastatin. Unlike other statin drugs, pravastatin is not extensively metabolized or recycled. CYP3A4 enzymes in the liver. Instead, pravastatin is broken down in the stomach.

Pravastatin generic tablets are available in 10, 20, 40 and 80 mg strengths. Pravastatin is usually given once a day in the evening. Pravastatin has been shown to be more effective when taken in the evening than in the morning.

Lipitor is a brand name drug available as a generic drug called atorvastatin. Unlike pravastatin, atorvastatin is extensively metabolized by CYP3A4 in the liver. Therefore, atorvastatin has the potential to interact with more drugs than pravastatin.

Lipitor is available in 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg and 80 mg oral tablets. Lipitor can be taken in the morning or evening, usually once a day.

Main differences between pravastatin and lipitor
Drug class	HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor	HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor
Brand/generic status	Brand and generic versions available	Brand and generic versions available
What is the common name? What is a trademark?	Brand name: Pravachol Generic name: Pravastatin	Trade name: Lipitor Generic name: Atorvastatin
What form(s) is the drug in?	Oral tablet	Oral tablet
What is the standard dosage?	10 to 80 mg once a day	10 to 80 mg once a day
How long does a typical treatment last?	Long term	Long term
Who usually takes this medicine?	Adults; children and adolescents 8 to 18 years of age	Adults; children and adolescents aged 10 to 17 years

Conditions treated with pravastatin and lipitor

Pravastatin and atorvastatin may help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in people with coronary artery disease. Both drugs can also help reduce the risk of dying from heart disease. Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol.

Both pravastatin and atorvastatin are FDA approved for the reduction of elevated levels of total cholesterol and LDL (also known as hyperlipidemia or hypercholesterolemia). Statin medications can also help treat elevated triglycerides, which are another type of fat or lipid in the body. Someone with elevated triglyceride levels has hypertriglyceridemia.

Pravastatin and Lipitor can also increase blood HDL levels. HDL cholesterol is what is known as the good cholesterol in the blood.

90 182

9 0186 Hypertriglyceridemia

Condition	Pravastatin	Lipitor
Hyperlipidemia	yes	yes
Hypercholesterolemia	yes	yes
yes	yes

Is pravastatin or Lipitor more effective?

Both pravastatin and atorvastatin are effective drugs for the treatment of high blood cholesterol. The more effective medicine depends on your general condition, the severity of your condition, other medicines you may be taking, and other factors.

One comparative study found no significant difference between pravastatin, simvastatin and atorvastatin in preventing cardiovascular events. In other words, these statins were equally effective in reducing heart attacks and coronary heart disease.

A systematic review that pooled over 90 clinical trials compared statins such as fluvastatin, atorvastatin, pravastatin, simvastatin, and rosuvastatin. The review concluded that atorvastatin, fluvastatin, and simvastatin are most likely to be the best drugs for preventing cardiovascular events.

Talk to your doctor about the best statin for you. By doing a blood test and evaluating your general condition, your doctor will be able to determine whether pravastatin or atorvastatin is more effective for you. They may also prescribe another statin drug such as Zocor (simvastatin) or Crestor (rosuvastatin).

Pravastatin vs Lipitor coverage and cost comparison

Pravastatin is a generic drug that is usually covered by Medicare and insurance plans. The average cash price of pravastatin is about $129.99 for a 30-day supply. A SingleCare Savings Card can bring the cost of a pravastatin prescription down to less than $15.

Lipitor is a brand name drug that is also available in a cheaper generic version. The generic Lipitor, atorvastatin, is usually covered by most Medicare programs and insurance plans. Brand name Lipitor may be covered by high copay insurance plans. Lipitor cash price is around 249.99 dollars. SingleCare coupons can reduce the cost by up to $15 at participating pharmacies.

$0-20 $0-20

		Lipitor Lipitor
Usually covered by insurance?	yes	yes
Usually covered by Medicare Part D?	yes	yes
$0-$16
SingleCare Cost	US$12+	US$15+

Common side effects of pravastatin compared to Lipitor

The most common side effects of pravastatin are musculoskeletal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. The most common side effects of atorvastatin are musculoskeletal pain, diarrhea, and joint pain (arthralgia). Both pravastatin and atorvastatin can also cause other side effects such as upset stomach, dizziness, fatigue, rash, and urinary tract infections.

Serious side effects of statin drugs include muscle disease (myopathy) and rapid breakdown of muscle tissue (rhabdomyolysis). Seek immediate medical attention if you experience persistent or unexplained muscle pain, weakness, or soreness.

Pravastatin and atorvastatin may also cause elevated liver enzymes. Before treatment, it may be necessary to check the level of liver enzymes and control it.

	Pravastatin	Lipitor
	Frequency	Applicable?	Frequency
Musculoskeletal pain	yes	10%	yes	4%
Nausea/vomiting	yes	7%	yes	4%
89
Indigestion	yes	3%	yes	5%
Dizziness	yes	4%	yes	*
6%	No	–
Fatigue	yes	3%	yes	*
Rash	yes	5%	*
Arthralgia	yes	*	yes	7%
Urinary tract infection	yes	3%	yes	6%

face-to-face litigation data. This may not be a complete list of side effects that may occur. Please contact your doctor or health care provider for more information.
Source: DailyMed (Pravastatin), DailyMed (Lipitor)
*not reported

Drug interactions between pravastatin and Lipitor

Pravastatin and atorvastatin interact with similar drugs. However, since atorvastatin is metabolized primarily by the CYP3A4 enzyme in the liver, it may interact with other drugs that affect CYP3A4 enzymes in the liver.

Taking medicines such as cyclosporine, clarithromycin, or ritonavir with pravastatin or atorvastatin may increase blood levels of statins, which may increase the risk of side effects.

Antacids may interfere with the absorption of statins and reduce their effectiveness. Antacids and statins should be separated by at least two hours. Cholestyramine can also reduce the absorption and effectiveness of statins. Cholestyramine and statin intake should be separated by four hours.

Niacin and fibrates may increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when taken with pravastatin or atorvastatin.

The use of atorvastatin should be avoided or monitored during administration. grapefruit juice . Grapefruit juice acts as a CYP3A4 inhibitor, which can lead to increased blood levels of atorvastatin and an increased risk of side effects.

Drug	Drug class	Pravastatin	Lipitor 9 0188
Cyclosporine	Immunosuppressants	yes	yes
Clarithromycin Erythromycin	Antibiotics	yes	yes
Ketoconazole Itraconazole Voriconazole Posaconazole	Antifungal	No	yes
Ritonavir Simeprevir Ledipasvir Boceprevir Darunavir	Antiviral drugs	yes	yes
Niacin	Antilipemic agents	yes	yes
Fenofibrate Gemfibrozil	Fibrates	yes	yes
Digoxin	Cardiac glycosides	yes	yes
Cholestyramine	Bile acid sequestrants	yes	yes 901 89
Aluminum hydroxide Magnesium hydroxide	Antacids	yes	yes

Talk to your doctor about other possible drug interactions.

Pravastatin and Lipitor 9 warnings0010

Pravastatin and atorvastatin should be avoided in patients with active liver disease or elevated liver enzymes. Taking statins can cause further liver damage in a person with liver disease.

Pravastatin and atorvastatin should not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to statins. Signs and symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction include rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

Statin drugs carry a risk of serious muscle damage and muscle pain. People over the age of 65, uncontrolled hypothyroidism, or kidney problems may have an increased risk of muscle pain.

Pravastatin and atorvastatin should not be used in pregnant or lactating women.

Talk to your doctor to discuss other possible warnings or precautions associated with pravastatin or atorvastatin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pravastatin and Lipitor

What is Pravastatin?

Pravastatin is a generic drug used to lower cholesterol and prevent complications caused by high cholesterol. Pravastatin’s brand name is Pravahol. It is prescribed once a day in the evening. Pravastatin is available as an oral tablet.

What is Lipitor?

Lipitor is a brand name drug manufactured by Pfizer. Lipitor’s generic name is atorvastatin. It is used to treat high cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Lipitor is prescribed once a day in the morning or evening. It is available as tablets to take by mouth.

Are pravastatin and lipitor the same thing?

Both pravastatin and atorvastatin are medicines used to lower high cholesterol. However, it is not the same. Atorvastatin is primarily metabolized by the CYP P450 enzyme system in the liver, while pravastatin is cleaved in the stomach. Pravastatin is usually taken at night and Lipitor is usually taken in the morning or evening.

Is pravastatin or lipitor better?

Both pravastatin and lipitor are effective forms of statin therapy. Both drugs can help prevent complications associated with high cholesterol, such as atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke.