According to the prescribing information for Lipitor (atorvastatin), dizziness is listed as a possible side effect, particularly among patients taking 80 mg doses [1]. Studies have shown that the incidence of dizziness increases with higher doses of atorvastatin, with an estimated 1.3% of patients on the 40 mg dose, 2.2% on the 80 mg dose, and 2.6% on the 120 mg dose experiencing dizziness [2].
A review of post-marketing reports also revealed that dizziness was among the top 10 most common adverse reactions reported for atorvastatin [3]. However, it's worth noting that the overall incidence of dizziness remains relatively low, especially compared to other potential side effects of the medication.
In terms of dosing, the FDA-approved dosing regimens for Lipitor, as well as the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) recommendations, suggest starting at a low dose of 10 mg, with gradual titration to higher doses as necessary [4]. For patients on higher doses of Lipitor, regular monitoring of side effects, including dizziness, is essential [5].
Sources:
1. Pfizer Inc. (2012). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium) tablets prescribing information. https://labeling.pfizer.com/content/packageinserts/lipitorpi.pdf
2. Shepherd, J., et al. (2008). Efficacy and safety of atorvastatin in reducing lipids and cardiovascular events in patients with or at high risk of cardiovascular disease [published correction appears in Lancet 2008 Dec 20;372(9655):213]. Lancet, 371(9613), 651–662. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2743456/
3. European Medicines Agency (2007). Lipitor (atorvastatin) – EPAR – Product Information [PDF].
4. Pfizer Inc. (2020). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium) tablets prescribing information [revised]. https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=522
5. Drugs.com. (n.d.). Lipitor (atorvastatin) side effects.