Lipitor is a medication that is commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is a type of statin medication. While statins are generally safe, they can cause side effects in some people. One of the potential side effects of statins, including Lipitor, is liver damage.
According to the Mayo Clinic [2], some of the warning signs of liver damage from statins include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Upper abdominal pain
- Dark urine
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Lipitor or another statin medication, it is important to contact your doctor right away. They may recommend blood tests to check your liver function and determine if the medication is causing any damage.
The FDA has also issued safety communications about the potential for statins to cause liver damage [3]. In 2012, the FDA required that all statin medications include a warning about the risk of liver damage on their labels. However, it is important to note that the risk of liver damage from statins is generally low, and most people can take these medications safely.
In summary, while Lipitor and other statin medications can cause liver damage in some people, the risk is generally low. If you experience any warning signs of liver damage while taking Lipitor, it is important to contact your doctor right away. They may recommend blood tests to check your liver function and determine if the medication is causing any damage.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013
[3] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-drug-safety-communication-important-safety-label-changes-cholesterol-lowering-statin-drugs