Lipitor or Atorvastatin Side Effects
Lipitor is the brand name for Atorvastatin calcium – a drug used to reduce the risk of a stroke or heart attack, and to lower blood cholesterol levels. Clinical trials show that it is generally safe, but possible Lipitor side effects still exist. They are divided into:
- Systemic symptoms – include back and stomach pain, flu-like symptoms, headache, skin rashes, joint or muscle pain and general weakness or drowsiness.
- Digestive symptoms – include diarrhea, flatulence, constipation, nausea and heartburn are reported side effects of Lipitor.
- Respiratory symptoms. Lipitor use has been associated with sore throat and sinus infection.
Lipitor is forbidden to be used by breast-feeding women, or women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. It should not be taken by people with active liver disease, or by those who abuse or have abused alcohol. Also, grapefruit juice or grapefruit consumption should be avoided by those taking Lipitor. As it was found out grapefruit increases the levels of the drug in the body, and can cause renal failure and other life-threatening complications.
September 27 2011 08:23 am | Atorvastatin