Lipitor is a medication used to treat high cholesterol, and it belongs to a class of drugs called statins. According to DrugPatentWatch [1], Lipitor's active ingredient is atorvastatin calcium. Herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA, and their interactions with prescription medications may not be well understood. However, some herbs may interact negatively with Lipitor and increase the risk of side effects.
One herb that may interact negatively with Lipitor is St. John's Wort. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association [2], St. John's Wort may reduce the effectiveness of statins, including Lipitor. The study suggests that St. John's Wort may increase the breakdown of statins in the liver, leading to lower blood levels of the medication. This can reduce the effectiveness of the medication and increase the risk of high cholesterol.
Another herb that may interact negatively with Lipitor is guggul. According to the Mayo Clinic [3], guggul may increase the risk of side effects associated with statins, including liver damage and muscle pain. Guggul may also increase the risk of bleeding in people taking blood-thinning medications.
Other herbs that may interact negatively with Lipitor include garlic, ginger, and turmeric. These herbs may increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people taking blood-thinning medications. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements, especially if you are taking prescription medications like Lipitor.
In conclusion, St. John's Wort and guggul are two herbs that may interact negatively with Lipitor and increase the risk of side effects. Other herbs that may interact negatively with Lipitor include garlic, ginger, and turmeric. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements, especially if you are taking prescription medications like Lipitor.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4593660/
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/herbal-supplements/art-20046488