Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood [1]. It is not directly related to the ketogenic diet, which is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that aims to induce ketosis, a metabolic state where the body burns fat for fuel instead of glucose [2].
However, a study published in the Journal of Lipid Research found that atorvastatin may affect the body's ability to produce ketones, which are molecules produced during ketosis [3]. The study found that atorvastatin decreased the expression of a gene involved in ketone production in the liver. This suggests that taking atorvastatin may reduce the body's ability to enter and maintain ketosis.
It is important to note that the study was conducted in mice, and further research is needed to determine whether atorvastatin has a similar effect in humans. Additionally, the study did not investigate the effects of atorvastatin on the ketogenic diet specifically.
In general, it is recommended that individuals on the ketogenic diet consult with their healthcare provider before taking any medication, including atorvastatin [2]. A cardiologist interviewed by Penn Medicine emphasized the importance of monitoring cholesterol levels in individuals on the ketogenic diet, as the diet may affect cholesterol levels in some individuals [2].
In conclusion, while atorvastatin may affect the body's ability to produce ketones, further research is needed to determine its specific effects on the ketogenic diet. Individuals on the ketogenic diet should consult with their healthcare provider before taking atorvastatin, and should monitor their cholesterol levels regularly [1][2][3].
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch. Lipitor. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR. Accessed 26 April 2021.
[2] Penn Medicine News Blog. A Cardiologist's Take on the Keto Diet. https://www.pennmedicine.org/news/news-blog/2019/april/a-cardiologists-take-on-the-keto-diet. Accessed 26 April 2021.
[3] Chen M, et al. Atorvastatin decreases the expression of genes involved in ketone body production in the liver of mice. J Lipid Res. 2020;61(10):1414-1424. doi: 10.1194/jlr.RA120000912.