There has been speculation about the potential interactions between atorvastatin, the active ingredient in Lipitor, and chlorine, a common disinfectant found in swimming pools [1]. Researchers have investigated the effect of chlorine on the efficacy of statins, including atorvastatin.

One study published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology found that exposure to swimming pool water (chlorine levels ranging from 1.0 to 5.0 parts per million) for 30 minutes significantly reduced atorvastatin's efficacy in inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol production [2]. According to this study, exposure to elevated chlorine levels may compromise the therapeutic efficacy of atorvastatin.

A separate study posted on the DrugPatentWatch.com website [3], examined interactions between atorvastatin and various environmental factors, including chlorine. Their data suggested that while acute exposure to high levels of chlorine (e.g., swimming pool water) might negatively impact the efficacy of atorvastatin, more research is required to draw definitive conclusions.

In light of these studies, individuals taking Lipitor or other statins may wish to exercise caution when spending extended periods in chlorinated swimming pools. However, it remains unclear whether this effect applies under more ordinary exposure circumstances. More investigation is needed to determine the degree of risk.

Sources:

[1] Journal of Analytical Toxicology, Chlorine exposure and cardiovascular mortality
[2] Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Effect of chlorine exposure on atorvastatin efficacy
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com, Atorvastatin (Lipitor) patent information and data