Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. According to the National Health Service (NHS) [1], statins such as Lipitor are generally safe and well-tolerated by most people. However, as with any medication, there are some potential side effects and risks to consider.
One of the risks associated with taking Lipitor is liver damage. In rare cases, statins can cause an increase in liver enzymes, which can be a sign of liver damage. Therefore, it is recommended that liver function tests be performed before starting Lipitor and periodically thereafter to monitor for any potential liver problems [1]. The frequency of these tests will depend on the individual patient's risk factors and medical history.
The Drug Patent Watch [2] also notes that liver function tests should be performed before starting Lipitor and periodically thereafter to monitor liver function. However, it does not provide specific details on the recommended frequency of these tests.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) [3] states that liver function tests should be performed before starting Lipitor and then again 12 weeks after starting the medication. If the liver function tests are normal at 12 weeks, then they can be repeated every six months thereafter. However, if the patient has a history of liver disease or other risk factors, more frequent monitoring may be necessary.
In summary, liver function tests should be performed before starting Lipitor and periodically thereafter to monitor for potential liver problems. The frequency of these tests will depend on the individual patient's risk factors and medical history. If you have any concerns about taking Lipitor or the recommended monitoring schedule, you should speak with your healthcare provider.
Sources:
[1] NHS. "Statins - considerations." https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/statins/considerations/.
[2] Drug Patent Watch. "Lipitor Tradename Details." https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR.
[3] NCBI. "Statins: Actions, Side Effects, and Administration." https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430779/.