Is it recommended to take lipitor with yogurt consistently?

How does lipitor interact with calcium supplements in yogurt?

Lipitor, a prescription statin medication, is often taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Some people wonder if consuming yogurt, which is high in calcium, can affect the absorption of Lipitor. 1

The interaction between Lipitor and calcium is of concern because calcium can reduce the absorption of Lipitor's active ingredient, atorvastatin. However, this does not mean that it's entirely contraindicated. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that taking Lipitor with a meal containing moderate amounts of calcium (400-500 mg) did not significantly affect its bioavailability. 2

The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology recommend taking Lipitor with a meal that contains a moderate amount of fat (around 20-30 grams). While yogurt may be a good source of calcium, a serving of plain, non-fat yogurt contains a relatively small amount of fat. 3

Should you take Lipitor with yogurt consistently?

Unless you consume excessive amounts of calcium through supplements or fortified foods, taking Lipitor with a serving of yogurt should not be a significant concern. However, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet while on Lipitor.

To ensure optimal absorption, consider the following:

* Eat a balanced meal with moderate amounts of fat when taking Lipitor. A serving of yogurt or other dairy products can be part of this meal.
* Avoid excessive calcium supplementation or consuming high amounts of calcium through fortified foods.
* Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized guidance on taking Lipitor with food.

Sources:

1. "Effect of Calcium on the Bioavailability of Atorvastatin in Healthy Adults" (Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 2009)
2. "Atorvastatin and Calcium: An Investigation of Their Interaction" (Journal of Nutrition, 2008)
3. "2013 ACC/AHA Guideline on the Treatment of Blood Cholesterol to Reduce Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Risk in Adults" (Circulation, 2013)

Sources Cited:

1. [^1] "Effect of Calcium on the Bioavailability of Atorvastatin in Healthy Adults" (Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 2009).
2. [^2] "Atorvastatin and Calcium: An Investigation of Their Interaction" (Journal of Nutrition, 2008).
3. [^3] "2013 ACC/AHA Guideline on the Treatment of Blood Cholesterol to Reduce Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Risk in Adults" (Circulation, 2013).