Supplements can interact with prescription medications, including Lipitor, a drug used to treat high cholesterol. These interactions can either decrease or increase the effectiveness of Lipitor or even cause adverse effects. Therefore, it is essential to inform healthcare providers about any supplements being taken.

Some supplements can affect Lipitor's ability to lower cholesterol. For instance, red yeast rice, a dietary supplement, contains monacolin K, which is a statin, the same class of drug as Lipitor [1]. Taking both red yeast rice and Lipitor could increase the risk of muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis) [1].

Another supplement that may interact with Lipitor is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Statins like Lipitor can decrease the levels of CoQ10 in the body, which can lead to muscle pain and weakness [2]. Some people take CoQ10 supplements to counteract these side effects [2]. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

St. John's Wort, a supplement used for depression, can interact with Lipitor by reducing its levels in the body, which may decrease the drug's effectiveness [3]. St. John's Wort can affect the way the body metabolizes Lipitor, leading to reduced blood concentrations of the drug [3].

It is important to note that the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements as strictly as prescription medications [4]. Therefore, the quality and purity of supplements can vary significantly between brands and even between batches from the same manufacturer [4].

In summary, supplements can affect Lipitor in various ways, including decreasing its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Patients should inform their healthcare providers about any supplements they are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Red yeast rice. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/red-yeast-rice>
[2] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Coenzyme Q10. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/coenzyme-q10>
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). St. John's Wort. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/st-john-s-wort>
[4] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021, March 31). Dietary supplements. Retrieved from <https://www.fda.gov/food/information-consumers-using-dietary-supplements/dietary-supplements>