Lipitor is a brand name for atorvastatin, a medication that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood [1]. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology, statin drugs such as Lipitor have been shown to reduce muscle strength and endurance, which could potentially affect yoga performance [2]. The study suggests that the decrease in muscle strength and endurance is due to the reduction of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) levels in the body caused by statin drugs. CoQ10 is an enzyme that is important for energy production in cells, and its reduction can lead to muscle damage and fatigue [2].
Although the study suggests that statin drugs can affect muscle strength and endurance, it is important to note that the effects may vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience muscle-related side effects from statin drugs, while others may not [3]. Additionally, the effects of statin drugs on muscle performance may depend on the dose and duration of treatment [2].
If you are taking Lipitor and are concerned about its potential effects on your yoga performance, it is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can help you determine whether Lipitor is the right medication for you and can monitor your muscle function while you are taking the medication [3].
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch. Lipitor. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] Mancini, G. B. J., Baker, S., Bergeron, J., Fitchett, D., Frohlich, J., Genest, J., Gupta, M., Hegele, R. A., Ng, D. S., Pope, J., Tashakkor, A. Y., & Warnica, W. (2012). Diagnosis, prevention, and management of statin adverse effects and intolerance: proceedings of a Canadian Working Group Consensus Conference. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 6(3), 243–266. doi: 10.1016/j.jacl.2012.03.001
[3] Reynolds, G. (2017, January 4). A Fitness Downside to Statin Drugs? The New York Times. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/04/well/move/a-fitness-downside-to-statin-drugs.html