Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication that is used to treat high cholesterol levels. According to the drug label, the recommended starting dose of Lipitor is 10 or 20 mg once daily, and the maximum recommended dose is 80 mg once daily [1]. The dosage of Lipitor may be increased at intervals of 2 to 4 weeks, as needed, to achieve the desired cholesterol-lowering effect [2].

It is important to monitor cholesterol levels regularly while taking Lipitor, especially when the dosage is increased. According to the FDA, healthcare professionals should perform a blood test to check cholesterol levels within 4 to 12 weeks after starting Lipitor, after any dosage adjustment, and periodically thereafter [3]. This will help ensure that the medication is effectively lowering cholesterol levels and that the dosage is appropriate for the individual patient.

In summary, the recommended starting dose of Lipitor is 10 or 20 mg once daily, and the maximum recommended dose is 80 mg once daily. The dosage may be increased at intervals of 2 to 4 weeks, as needed, to achieve the desired cholesterol-lowering effect. Healthcare professionals should monitor cholesterol levels regularly, especially after any dosage adjustment, and periodically thereafter.

Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch. Lipitor. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] NCBI. Atorvastatin. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430779/
[3] FDA. FDA Drug Safety Communication: Important safety label changes to cholesterol-lowering statin drugs. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-drug-safety-communication-important-safety-label-changes-cholesterol-lowering-statin-drugs.