Lipitor Patient Information

Lipitor is a medication used to block the production of cholesterol in the body in users with high cholesterol. The medication works by lowering low-density lipoproteins in the blood, which in turn lowers the total cholesterol in the blood. Reducing cholesterol levels in users is done to prevent stroke, heart attack and other similar conditions of the heart that can lead to serious health problems.

Before Using

• Before using Lipitor, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications and if any of the following conditions apply: if you have an underactive thyroid, diabetes, kidney disease, a muscle disorder or a history of liver disease. Also, never use this medication if you are pregnant, breast feeding or allergic to atorvastatin. Lipitor is classified as FDA pregnancy category X and can cause severe birth defects.

Side Effects

• Unfortunately, there are a number of severe side effects associated with using this medication. Some of these side effects include nausea, stomach pain, heartburn, upset stomach, headache, itching, skin rash, constipation, bloating, loss of appetite, low fever, dark urine, clay-colored stools, yellowing of the skin and eyes, and muscle pain and tenderness. These side effects are also very rare and do not affect a large number of users.

Important Safety Information

• Avoid eating food high in fat or cholesterol throughout the course of treatment, as doing so can counteract the healing power of the medication. There have been rare cases when Lipitor has caused a breakdown of skeletal tissue in users, leading to kidney failure, so consult with your doctor if you have any previously existing kidney disorders before beginning treatment. Tell your doctor about all of the other medications you are currently taking to ensure that none of them will negatively interact with Lipitor.

Use

• Always use Lipitor exactly as it was prescribed by your doctor and never in dosages larger than what has been recommended on the label. The medication is administered in pill form and should be taken with a full glass of water. Lipitor can be taken with or without food and should always be taken at the same time every day. This medication is meant to be combined with a healthy diet and exercise program and will not provide the same results if taken without them.

Warning

• If you experience any of the above side effects, contact your physician immediately.

  If an overdose is suspected, contact the poison control center and head directly to the nearest emergency room.

  Lipitor is meant for lowering of blood pressure only and should not be used for any other medical purposes unless specifically instructed to do so by a doctor.