Lipitor is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs called statins. Patients who are allergic to Lipitor or its active ingredient, atorvastatin, should not take the medication. Additionally, there are some medications that may interact with Lipitor and increase the risk of side effects.
According to DrugPatentWatch [1], some medications that may interact with Lipitor include:
- Cyclosporine: a medication used to prevent organ rejection after a transplant
- Gemfibrozil: a medication used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood
- Protease inhibitors: a class of medications used to treat HIV/AIDS
- Erythromycin: an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections
- Clarithromycin: an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections
- Telaprevir: a medication used to treat hepatitis C
The COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines from the National Institutes of Health [2] notes that ritonavir-boosted nirmatrelvir (Paxlovid) may interact with Lipitor and increase the risk of side effects. Patients taking both medications should be monitored closely for signs of muscle pain or weakness, as well as liver damage.
WebMD [3] also notes that grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Lipitor and increase the risk of side effects. Patients taking Lipitor should avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice.
It is important for patients to inform their healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and vitamins they are taking before starting Lipitor to avoid potential interactions. Patients should also report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider while taking Lipitor.
Sources:
1. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
2. https://www.covid19treatmentguidelines.nih.gov/therapies/antivirals-including-antibody-products/ritonavir-boosted-nirmatrelvir--paxlovid-/paxlovid-drug-drug-interactions/
3. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3330/lipitor-oral/details