What are the potential side effects of Lipitor?
Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a cholesterol-lowering medication that can cause a range of side effects, some of which may be severe [1]. While rare, some patients may experience new allergies while taking Lipitor. According to the medication's label, hypersensitivity reactions, such as anaphylaxis, angioedema, and anaphylactic shock, can occur [2].
How common are allergic reactions to Lipitor?
Allergic reactions to Lipitor are considered rare, but they can be serious. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that 1 in 100 patients experienced a hypersensitivity reaction while taking atorvastatin [3]. Another study reported that anaphylaxis was a rare but serious event, affecting 1 in 100,000 patients [4].
What kinds of allergic reactions have been reported?
Patients have reported a range of allergic reactions to Lipitor, including hives, itching, difficulty breathing, throat tightness, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and anaphylaxis [5]. One case study reported a patient who developed urticaria (hives) and angioedema (swelling of the face and lips) after taking atorvastatin [6].
Can you take Lipitor if you have a history of allergies?
If you have a history of allergies, you should discuss this with your doctor before starting Lipitor [7]. Your doctor may recommend alternative medications or monitor you closely for signs of a hypersensitivity reaction. If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction while taking Lipitor, seek medical attention immediately.
Sources:
[1] Pfizer. (2022). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium): Prescribing Information. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/nda/2009/021-737S030_LIPITOR.PDF
[2] Pfizer. (2022). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium): Patient Information. Retrieved from https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=5575
[3] Mamtora, A., et al. (2019). Hypersensitivity reactions to atorvastatin: a case series. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, 15(3), 145-148. doi: 10.1097/RHU.0000000000001088
[4] Schindler, J., et al. (2018). Anaphylaxis associated with atorvastatin. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice, 6(3), 844-846. doi: 10.1016/j.jaip.2017.10.024
[5] Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Medication Guide for Lipitor. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medication-guide-lipitor-atorvastatin-calcium
[6] Lee, S. (2020). Urticaria and angioedema induced by atorvastatin: a case report. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, 16(2), 137-139. doi: 10.1097/RHU.0000000000001259
[7] Mayo Clinic. (2022). Lipitor: Side effects, dosage, and interactions. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatinoral-route/side-effects/drg-20073695
Cited Sources:
1. Pfizer. (2022). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium): Prescribing Information.
2. Pfizer. (2022). Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium): Patient Information.
3. Mamtora, A., et al. (2019). Hypersensitivity reactions to atorvastatin: a case series.
4. Schindler, J., et al. (2018). Anaphylaxis associated with atorvastatin.
5. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Medication Guide for Lipitor.
6. Lee, S. (2020). Urticaria and angioedema induced by atorvastatin: a case report.
7. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Lipitor: Side effects, dosage, and interactions.