Lipitor is a medication prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. This medication may not be right for everyone to take. Although it is very beneficial the side effects lipitor can cause can sometimes be severe.
Lipitor
Lipitor is a medication the blocks the production of cholesterol within the body. This medication can lower two main types of cholesterol, low-density ( LDL ) cholesterol and the total cholesterol in the blood. This medication can help prevent including heart attacks and stroke by slowing down the formation of arterial plaques.
Warnings
This medication should not be used if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breast feeding. This medication may not be right for you if you have diabetes, kidney or liver disease, and under active thyroid. If you have any muscle disorders you should not take this medication.
It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medication. You should also avoid eating foods that are high in cholesterol. It is important to follow a low cholesterol diet plan while taking this medication.
Usage
This medication should be taken once daily. For the medication to be effective it is best to take the medication at the same time everyday. It can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken with a full glass of water.
While taking this medication you will need to have your blood monitored regularly. You must follow a diet and exercise plan while taking lipitor.
Counteractions
Lipitor should not be taken while you are still eating unhealthy. You should not drink while taking this medication because it can cause damage to your liver. Do not use grapefruit of any kind while taking lipitor. Grapefruit interacts poorly with lipitor and can cause dangerous effects.
Side Effects
There are many side effects lipitor can cause. The less serious side effects lipitor can cause include skin irritation of itching and a rash. You can experience headache and stuffy nose. You may also have heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, and stomach upset. Constipation, gas, and bloating are common side effects of lipitor.
Rare but serious side effects of this medication include muscle pain and tenderness. Weakness with flu like symptoms can occur. Nausea, stomach pain, and fever are rare side effects of this medication. You can also experience loss of appetite, unusual urine and stools, and jaundice.
Rarely, this medication has been known to cause kidney failure. It can cause the skeletal muscle to deteriorate. It can cause birth defects to unborn babies.
References:
“Lipitor” Drugs.com
“Lipitor” RXList.com