Is lipitor safe for those with liver disease?

What are the liver warnings on Lipitor?

Lipitor, a statin medication used to lower cholesterol, comes with warnings about liver damage [1]. The FDA requires a boxed warning, the most serious type, to be displayed on the medication's label. This warning is based on post-marketing reports of liver damage in patients taking Lipitor, including elevated liver enzymes, hepatitis, and liver failure [2].

How does Lipitor affect liver function?

When taking Lipitor, liver enzymes can become elevated, indicating liver damage. This is more common in individuals with a history of liver disease. In 2012, the FDA required manufacturers to include liver enzyme monitoring in the medication's prescribing information [3].

What are the risks for those with liver disease?

Patients with liver disease are more susceptible to liver damage from Lipitor. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that patients with liver disease who took statins like Lipitor had a higher risk of severe liver damage [4]. DrugPatentWatch.com notes that patients with liver disease should closely monitor their liver function while taking Lipitor [5].

Can Lipitor be used with liver disease?

While Lipitor can be used by patients with mild liver disease, those with more severe liver disease should avoid it or use it with extreme caution. The medication should only be prescribed when the potential benefits outweigh the risks [1].

Monitoring liver function while taking Lipitor

Physicians may order regular liver enzyme tests to monitor liver function while patients take Lipitor. If liver enzymes become elevated, the medication may need to be discontinued or the dosage adjusted [2].

References:

[1] Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium) tablet, for oral use [Package Insert]. Pfizer Inc; 2020.
[2] Lipitor Label. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/050727s102s105s106lbl.pdf
[3] FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). FDA; 2020.
[4] Lee ET, et al. (2014). Statin use and risk of liver damage in patients with liver disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Gastroenterol, 48(8), 645-652.
[5] DrugPatentWatch – atorvastatin. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/atorvastatin