Grapefruit juice can have a significant effect on the way that the body processes certain medications, including the popular cholesterol-lowering drug Lipitor [2]. Lipitor is a type of medication known as a statin, which works by blocking the enzyme that the liver uses to produce cholesterol [1]. When consumed, grapefruit juice can inhibit the activity of an enzyme in the small intestine that helps to break down Lipitor and other statins [2]. This can lead to higher-than-intended levels of the medication in the bloodstream, which can increase the risk of side effects and potentially harmful drug interactions [2][3]. It is important for patients taking Lipitor or other statins to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking their medication [2][3]. Other citrus fruits, such as oranges and tangerines, do not have the same effect and can be safely consumed with statins [2].

Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch. (n.d.). Lipitor. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] Harvard Health Publishing. (2017, February 6). Grapefruit juice and statins. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/grapefruit-juice-and-statins
[3] GoodRx. (n.d.). Why can't I have grapefruit with my statin? Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/classes/statins/why-cant-i-have-grapefruit-with-my-statin