Patients taking the statin medication Lipitor (atorvastatin) may experience elevated liver enzyme levels, which can be a concern as elevated levels are a potential indicator of liver damage or inflammation [1]. This relationship between Lipitor and liver tests has been observed in clinical trials and post-marketing studies.
According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Lipitor was first patented in 1993 and has been widely used as a treatment for high cholesterol since its approval by the US FDA in 1997 [2]. As part of the medication's approval and ongoing monitoring, the manufacturer, Pfizer, has reported findings on Lipitor's effects on liver function.
Research has shown that patients taking statins like Lipitor experience elevated liver enzyme levels (ALT and AST) in a small percentage of cases (typically less than 5%) [3]. These elevations can be mild, moderate, or severe. In some instances, patients taking statins have developed severe hepatitis and liver failure.
As a precaution, patients prescribed Lipitor should undergo regular monitoring of liver enzymes as part of their treatment regimen. Their healthcare providers may recommend periodic blood tests to check liver function, especially in the initial stages of treatment or when doses are increased.
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Lipitor - atorvastatin calcium.
[2] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Patents for Lipitor - atorvastatin calcium.
[3] Drugs.com. (2020). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Side Effects, Interactions, and Warnings.
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Patients taking Lipitor (atorvastatin) may experience elevated liver enzyme levels during treatment, which is a potential indicator of liver damage or inflammation [1]. This relationship between the medication and liver function has been observed in clinical trials and post-marketing studies.
Lipitor was first patented in 1993 and has been used to treat high cholesterol since its approval by the US FDA in 1997 [2]. As part of ongoing monitoring, Pfizer has reported findings on Lipitor's effects on liver function. Research shows that patients taking statins like Lipitor experience elevated liver enzyme levels (ALT and AST) in a small percentage of cases (typically less than 5%) [3].
Patients prescribed Lipitor should undergo regular monitoring of liver enzymes as part of their treatment regimen. Their healthcare providers may recommend periodic blood tests to check liver function, especially in the initial stages of treatment or when doses are increased.
Sources:
1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Lipitor - atorvastatin calcium.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Patents for Lipitor - atorvastatin calcium.
3. Drugs.com. (2020). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Side Effects, Interactions, and Warnings.