Lipitor is a brand name for atorvastatin, which is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. The interaction between Lipitor and painkillers can vary depending on the type of painkiller. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], there are no known drug interactions between Lipitor and painkillers such as acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen. However, it is important to note that this information may not be comprehensive and that it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new medication.
On the other hand, a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information [2] found that the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and diclofenac can increase the risk of muscle toxicity in patients taking statins like Lipitor. The study suggests that this interaction may be due to the fact that both statins and NSAIDs are metabolized by the same enzyme in the liver, which can lead to an accumulation of statins in the blood and an increased risk of muscle damage.
Additionally, the NIH COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines [3] caution against the concomitant use of Lipitor and ritonavir-boosted nirmatrelvir (Paxlovid), which is an antiviral medication used to treat COVID-19. This is because both medications are metabolized by the same enzyme in the liver, which can lead to an increased risk of side effects and toxicity.
In conclusion, while there are no known drug interactions between Lipitor and painkillers such as acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen, it is important to be cautious when taking NSAIDs as they can increase the risk of muscle toxicity in patients taking statins like Lipitor. Additionally, patients taking Lipitor should avoid concomitant use with ritonavir-boosted nirmatrelvir (Paxlovid) due to the potential for drug interactions and increased risk of side effects and toxicity.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3334287/
[3] https://www.covid19treatmentguidelines.nih.gov/therapies/antivirals-including-antibody-products/ritonavir-boosted-nirmatrelvir--paxlovid-/paxlovid-drug-drug-interactions/