How often are liver function tests done since taking lipitor?

Generally, you don’t need routine periodic liver function tests (LFTs) just because you’re taking Lipitor (atorvastatin).

What’s common practice:
- Baseline: LFTs are usually checked before starting atorvastatin.
- After that: No routine LFTs are required for everyone. If you have no liver disease, risk factors, or symptoms, your doctor may not order regular follow-up LFTs.
- When tests are done: If you have symptoms suggestive of liver trouble (e.g., persistent fatigue, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing of the skin/eyes, upper right abdominal pain), or if you have risk factors (heavy alcohol use, hepatitis, other liver disease, or you’re on higher doses of statin), your doctor may order LFTs.
- If an LFT is elevated: If ALT/AST or bilirubin rise to more than about 3× the upper limit of normal (ULN), the statin is usually stopped and rechecked to confirm, then a decision is made about continuing.

Numbers (for reference, values depend on the lab): ULN for ALT/AST is typically around 40 U/L, but labs vary.

Bottom line: Talk to your doctor about your specific risk factors and any symptoms you might have. If you’re comfortable, I can help you think through what your last blood test showed or help you prepare questions for your clinician.