Lipitor is a brand name for the drug atorvastatin, which is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. The recommended dosage of Lipitor depends on various factors such as age, gender, and medical condition. According to the FDA drug safety communication issued in 2012, the agency required important safety label changes for cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, including Lipitor. The label change included new information about the potential risks of using high doses of statins, including an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, memory loss, and confusion [2].
The recommended starting dose of Lipitor for adults is usually 10 or 20 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum dose of 80 mg/day in certain patients. However, the dosage may be altered based on individual patient response and tolerability. For example, the dosage may be reduced to 5 mg/day for patients with certain medical conditions such as liver disease or kidney disease [1].
The FDA-approved label for Lipitor provides detailed information on the recommended dosage, contraindications, warnings, and precautions for use. The label also includes information on potential adverse reactions, drug interactions, and overdose management. Patients should always consult with their healthcare provider before altering their Lipitor dosage or stopping the medication [3].
In summary, the recommended dosage of Lipitor may be altered based on individual patient response and tolerability. Patients should follow the recommended dosage and consult with their healthcare provider before making any changes to their medication regimen. The FDA has required important safety label changes for cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, including Lipitor, to provide patients with the most up-to-date information on potential risks and benefits [2][3].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-drug-safety-communication-important-safety-label-changes-cholesterol-lowering-statin-drugs
[3] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/020702s057lbl.pdf