Does lipitor alter probiotic effectiveness?

How does Lipitor affect probiotic bacteria?

Lipitor, known generically as atorvastatin, reduces cholesterol levels by blocking HMG-CoA reductase. [1] This enzyme plays part in cholesterol synthesis but also appears in the metabolic pathways of many bacteria, including those in probiotic supplements. Some studies indicate that statins may inhibit bacterial growth at concentrations higher than typical blood levels in patients.

What happens if probiotics are taken together with Lipitor?

No direct clinical trials show that Lipitor reduces probiotic effectiveness in humans. [2] Some in vitro data suggest that atorvastatin has antibacterial properties against specific gram-positive species such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which are common in many probiotic products. However, these laboratory findings occur at concentrations several times higher than plasma levels achieved with usual 10–80 mg daily doses. [3]