Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It is a statin drug that works by blocking an enzyme that produces cholesterol in the liver [1]. On the other hand, OTC painkillers are medications that can be bought without a prescription and are used to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation. Examples of OTC painkillers include aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen.
Taking Lipitor and OTC painkillers together can increase the risk of side effects. According to NBC News [2], Pfizer's COVID pills, which are similar to Lipitor, can be risky when taken with some other drugs, including OTC painkillers. The pills contain a protease inhibitor that can interact with other drugs and cause adverse effects. The protease inhibitor can increase the concentration of some drugs in the blood, leading to toxicity.
Yale Medicine [3] notes that Paxlovid, a COVID-19 treatment, should not be taken with some medications, including Lipitor, as it can lead to an increased risk of side effects. Lipitor and Paxlovid are both metabolized by the same enzyme in the liver, and taking them together can cause a drug interaction that increases the concentration of both drugs in the blood, leading to toxicity.
In conclusion, taking Lipitor and OTC painkillers together can increase the risk of side effects. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medications, including OTC painkillers, to avoid drug interactions and adverse effects.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/pfizer-covid-pills-covid-symptoms-may-risky-drugs-rcna9683
[3] https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/13-things-to-know-paxlovid-covid-19