Lipitor, the brand name for atorvastatin, is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood [1]. According to a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information, statins, including Lipitor, have been associated with an increased risk of muscle-related adverse effects, such as myopathy and rhabdomyolysis, which can lead to muscle damage and weakness [2]. These adverse effects can be exacerbated by certain factors, including genetics, advanced age, renal and hepatic dysfunction, and drug interactions [2].
However, the sources do not provide any evidence that Lipitor use has a direct impact on protein absorption. Protein absorption occurs in the small intestine, where enzymes break down proteins into amino acids that can be absorbed into the bloodstream [3]. Lipitor works by inhibiting an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis in the liver, which helps to lower cholesterol levels in the blood [1]. Therefore, it is unlikely that Lipitor use would have any direct effect on protein absorption.
In conclusion, while Lipitor use has been associated with an increased risk of muscle-related adverse effects, there is no evidence to suggest that it has a direct impact on protein absorption. As with any medication, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting or stopping Lipitor to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for individual use.
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch. (n.d.). Lipitor. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] Kashani, A., Phillips, C. O., & Foody, J. M. (2017). Statin-associated adverse effects: a guide for clinicians. American Journal of Medicine, 130(2), 144-151. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2016.08.038
[3] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017). Your Digestive System & How it Works. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/digestive-system-how-it-works