Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], Lipitor is a statin medication that works by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver. It is essential to take Lipitor as prescribed by a doctor, and patients should avoid taking any other medications or supplements without consulting a healthcare professional.

The NHS [2] advises that herbal supplements may interact with Lipitor, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Some herbal supplements that may interact with Lipitor include St. John's Wort, which can reduce the effectiveness of the medication, and grapefruit juice, which can increase the risk of side effects. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any herbal supplements they are taking before starting Lipitor.

A study published in the US National Library of Medicine [3] found that some herbal supplements can affect the metabolism of statin medications, including Lipitor. The study reported that garlic, ginseng, and green tea supplements can affect the effectiveness of statins and increase the risk of side effects. Therefore, patients should avoid taking these supplements while taking Lipitor.

In conclusion, herbal supplements can interact with Lipitor and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any herbal supplements they are taking before starting Lipitor and avoid taking supplements that can affect the metabolism of statin medications. It is essential to follow the doctor's instructions when taking Lipitor to ensure its effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/atorvastatin/taking-atorvastatin-with-other-medicines-and-herbal-supplements/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4593660/