The starting dose of Lipitor (atorvastatin) for elderly patients is generally recommended to be lower than for younger patients due to the potential for increased risk of muscle damage and other adverse effects [1]. According to the Lipitor prescribing information, the usual starting dose for patients 65 years of age and older is 10 mg once daily, regardless of the presence of renal impairment [2].
It's worth noting, however, that the starting dose may be further reduced in certain situations, such as in patients with severe renal impairment or those at risk for muscle damage, including older adults [3]. In these cases, the starting dose may be as low as 5 mg once daily.
As with any medication, the starting dose of Lipitor for an elderly patient should be carefully evaluated by a healthcare provider to ensure that the patient receives the best possible treatment while minimizing the risk of adverse effects [4].
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/Atorvastatin
[2] Lipitor Prescribing Information. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2019/020664s057s058lbl.pdf
[3] Lipitor Prescribing Information. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2019/020664s057s058lbl.pdf
[4] Medscape. 2022. Atorvastatin: Indications, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and More. [online] Available at: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/205144-indications#
Sources:
1. DrugPatentWatch.com
2. Lipitor Prescribing Information
3. Lipitor Prescribing Information
4. Medscape