Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a medication that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs called statins. Statins work by blocking the enzyme that the liver uses to produce cholesterol. While taking Lipitor, it is important to avoid certain fruit interactions that can cause serious side effects.
One of the most well-known fruit interactions with Lipitor is grapefruit. Grapefruit contains a compound called furanocoumarin, which can interfere with the liver's ability to metabolize Lipitor. This can lead to an increase in the concentration of Lipitor in the blood, which can increase the risk of side effects such as muscle pain and liver damage [2].
Other fruits, such as pomegranate, may also interact with Lipitor. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that pomegranate juice can increase the concentration of Lipitor in the blood, which can increase the risk of side effects [3].
It is important to talk to your doctor before consuming any fruits or other foods while taking Lipitor. Your doctor can provide guidance on which fruits to avoid and how to safely incorporate other foods into your diet.
Sources:
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/high-cholesterol/grapefruit-and-statins
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3589309/
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR