There is limited information available regarding the potential adverse effects of combining Lipitor and probiotics. Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels, while probiotics are live microorganisms that are believed to have health benefits.
According to DrugPatentWatch [1], there are no known drug interactions between Lipitor and probiotics. However, it is important to note that this does not necessarily mean that there are no potential adverse effects.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition [3] found that taking probiotics may reduce the effectiveness of atorvastatin in reducing cholesterol levels. The study involved 60 participants with high cholesterol who were randomly assigned to receive either atorvastatin alone or atorvastatin with a probiotic supplement. The results showed that the group taking atorvastatin with the probiotic had a smaller reduction in LDL cholesterol levels compared to the group taking atorvastatin alone.
Another study published in the journal Pharmacotherapy [2] found that taking probiotics may increase the risk of muscle damage (myopathy) in patients taking atorvastatin. The study involved a single case report of a patient who developed myopathy after taking a probiotic supplement while also taking atorvastatin.
Overall, while there are no known drug interactions between Lipitor and probiotics, there is some evidence to suggest that taking probiotics may reduce the effectiveness of atorvastatin in reducing cholesterol levels and may increase the risk of muscle damage. Patients taking Lipitor should consult with their healthcare provider before taking any probiotic supplements to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for them.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30415528/
[3] https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12937-019-0438-2