Should lipitor be used solely for blood pressure control?

What is the primary use of Lipitor?

Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a statin prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease risk. It does not lower blood pressure.

Can Lipitor be used for blood pressure control?

Doctors do not prescribe Lipitor for blood pressure control because it has no direct effect on blood pressure. Blood pressure medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, or calcium channel blockers target blood pressure mechanisms.

What happens if someone takes Lipitor for blood pressure?

Taking Lipitor alone for blood pressure would leave blood pressure unmanaged. Patients who need both cholesterol and blood pressure control usually receive a statin plus a dedicated blood pressure drug. Some studies show statins may provide minor additional cardiovascular protection, but this does not ersatz blood pressure treatment.

How does Lipitor interact with blood pressure drugs?

Lipitor can combine safely with most blood pressure medications. Some patients receive both classes of drugs when they have multiple risk factors. Certain drug combinations require monitoring for muscle pain or liver enzyme changes.

When does Lipitor's patent expire?

Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, so generic atorvastatin is available widely at low cost. [1]

Who makes generic Lipitor?

Multiple manufacturers produce generic atorvastatin, including Pfizer's own generic division and independent suppliers.