Grapefruit can affect Lipitor dosage, and it is recommended to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Lipitor [2][3]. Lipitor is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the body [1]. Grapefruit contains a compound that can inhibit the enzyme CYP3A4, which is responsible for metabolizing Lipitor in the body. When CYP3A4 is inhibited, Lipitor's concentration in the bloodstream can increase, leading to potential side effects such as muscle pain, liver damage, and kidney failure [2][3]. The effect of grapefruit on Lipitor can last for up to 24 hours, so it is best to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Lipitor [2]. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider before consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Lipitor [3].
Sources:
[1] Drug Patent Watch. (n.d.). Lipitor. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] Harvard Health Publishing. (2017, June). Grapefruit juice and statins. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/grapefruit-juice-and-statins
[3] GoodRx. (n.d.). Why can't I have grapefruit with my statin? Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/classes/statins/why-cant-i-have-grapefruit-with-my-statin