Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is a type of statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], atorvastatin is a highly prescribed drug that is used to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart attacks. Grapefruit juice is known to interact with some medications, including atorvastatin, by inhibiting the enzymes responsible for metabolizing the drugs in the liver. This can lead to increased levels of the drug in the bloodstream, which can cause side effects such as muscle pain, liver damage, and kidney failure [2]. However, the effect of grapefruit oil on atorvastatin absorption is less clear.
The Tisserand Institute [3] explains that grapefruit oil contains compounds called furanocoumarins, which can inhibit the same enzymes responsible for metabolizing drugs in the liver as grapefruit juice. However, the concentration of furanocoumarins in grapefruit oil is much lower than in grapefruit juice, and the effect of grapefruit oil on drug metabolism is less well-studied. The Tisserand Institute recommends caution when using grapefruit oil with medications, including atorvastatin, and suggests consulting with a healthcare provider before use.
In summary, grapefruit juice is known to interact with atorvastatin by inhibiting the enzymes responsible for metabolizing the drug in the liver, which can lead to increased levels of the drug in the bloodstream and potential side effects. The effect of grapefruit oil on atorvastatin absorption is less clear, but caution is recommended when using grapefruit oil with medications, including atorvastatin, and consultation with a healthcare provider is suggested.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/grapefruit-juice-and-statins
[3] https://tisserandinstitute.org/learn-more/grapefruit-oil-and-medication/