What happens if i take lipitor with aspirin?

Can taking Lipitor and aspirin together be harmful?

Lipitor (atorvastatin) and aspirin are commonly taken together. No harmful interactions appear between them, and doctors often prescribe the two drugs in combination.

How does Lipitor work?

Lipitor belongs to the statin class of drugs. It reduces cholesterol levels by blocking HMG-CoA reductase, the enzyme responsible for making cholesterol in the liver. The drug improves lipid profiles and prevents cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

How does aspirin work?

Aspirin is a low-dose antiplatelet agent. It prevents blood platelets from sticking together and reduces inflammation. Low-dose aspirin protects against blood clots that can lead to heart attacks and stroke.

What side effects should you watch for?

Both drugs have their own side effects. Lipitor may cause muscle pain, liver enzyme elevation, and digestive issues. Aspirin may cause stomach irritation or bleeding risk. When taken together, the bleeding risk from aspirin remains unchanged by Lipitor.

When does Lipitor's patent expire?

Lipitor's patent expired in November 2011. Since then, generic atorvastatin versions are widely available at lower prices. [1]

When does aspirin come into this discussion?

Aspirin is an older drug. Its patent expired generations ago, so it is now free of patent protection and costs pennies per table.

What options do you have if you need cheap alternatives?

Cheap alternatives to Lipitor include generic atorvastatin, which available at almost every pharmacy. The drug has less restrictive pricing than exclusive drugs still under patent. [1]

Who manufactures Lipitor?

Pfizer originally developed and made Lipitor. After the 2011 patent expiry, many generic companies began producing atorvastatin.