Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is used to treat high cholesterol levels. According to the drug patent watch website [1], Lipitor works by blocking an enzyme that the liver needs to produce cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol in the blood.
Low-fat diets are often recommended to people with high cholesterol levels, as they can help to reduce the amount of cholesterol that the body absorbs from food. According to a study published in the Journal of Lipid Research [2], combining a low-fat diet with atorvastatin can be an effective way to lower cholesterol levels. The study found that people who followed a low-fat diet while taking atorvastatin had significantly lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol than those who only took atorvastatin.
While combining atorvastatin and a low-fat diet can be an effective way to lower cholesterol levels, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. According to Harvard Health Publishing [3], some people may experience muscle pain, weakness, or cramps while taking atorvastatin. In rare cases, atorvastatin can also cause liver damage or a condition called rhabdomyolysis, which is a breakdown of muscle tissue that can lead to kidney failure.
In conclusion, combining atorvastatin (Lipitor) and a low-fat diet can be an effective way to lower cholesterol levels, but there are potential side effects to be aware of. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new medication or diet, and to report any side effects that may occur.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6044319/
[3] https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/help-for-your-cholesterol-when-the-statins-wont-do