Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication commonly used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. However, the use of Lipitor during pregnancy is not recommended due to potential risks to the developing fetus [3]. The drug has been classified as a Pregnancy Category X drug by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means that studies have shown that it can cause harm to the fetus [1].
The NHS website advises that women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should not take Lipitor. If a woman becomes pregnant while taking Lipitor, she should stop taking the medication and contact her doctor immediately [2]. The American Pregnancy Association also recommends that women avoid taking Lipitor during pregnancy, as it may cause birth defects and other complications [3].
Studies on animals have shown that Lipitor can cause harm to the developing fetus, including skeletal malformations and decreased fetal weight [1]. However, there is limited data on the effects of Lipitor on human pregnancies. Some case reports have suggested that exposure to Lipitor during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of birth defects, but more research is needed to confirm these findings [3].
In summary, Lipitor is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus. Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should avoid taking Lipitor and should contact their doctor if they become pregnant while taking the medication. More research is needed to fully understand the effects of Lipitor on human pregnancies.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/atorvastatin/pregnancy-breastfeeding-and-fertility-while-taking-atorvastatin/
[3] https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/medication/atorvastatin-during-pregnancy/