Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. While it is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. According to Medscape [3], common side effects of Lipitor include muscle pain, weakness, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation.
One possible dietary adjustment that may help ease Lipitor side effects is to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], grapefruit can interfere with the metabolism of Lipitor, leading to increased blood levels of the drug and an increased risk of side effects. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking Lipitor.
Another dietary adjustment that may help ease Lipitor side effects is to increase fiber intake. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information [2], a high-fiber diet can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve overall heart health. Additionally, increasing fiber intake can help alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation.
It is important to note that dietary adjustments alone may not be sufficient to alleviate all Lipitor side effects. Patients experiencing side effects should speak with their healthcare provider to discuss possible treatment options.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430779/
[3] https://reference.medscape.com/drug/lipitor-atorvaliq-atorvastatin-342446