Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is a type of statin used to lower cholesterol levels in the body [1]. Some people may experience muscle pain or weakness as a side effect of taking statins like Lipitor. While stretching can help alleviate muscle pain, there is no specific duration recommended for stretching to reduce Lipitor side effects [2].
According to Harvard Health Publishing, there are several strategies that can help manage statin-induced muscle pain, including switching to a different statin, taking a break from the medication, and supplementing with coenzyme Q10 [2]. Additionally, WebMD suggests that staying hydrated, applying heat or cold to affected muscles, and gentle stretching may help alleviate muscle spasms and cramps [3].
It is important to note that anyone experiencing severe or persistent muscle pain while taking Lipitor or any other statin should speak with their healthcare provider. They may need to adjust their dosage or switch to a different medication to manage their cholesterol levels without experiencing side effects [2].
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch. (n.d.). Lipitor. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] Harvard Health Publishing. (2017, August). Managing statin muscle pain. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/managing-statin-muscle-pain
[3] WebMD. (2019, September 18). Muscle Spasms, Cramps, and Charley Horse. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/muscle-spasms-cramps-charley-horse