Lipitor

From Pharmacy Drug Guide

Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium) is a prescription drug used to control cholesterol, thereby potentially reducing risk of heart attack, stroke, and some cardiac surgeries in patients with risk factors such as family history and high blood pressure. Lipitor can lower levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. Lipitor is used in conjunction with low-fat diet and exercise. Doctors also prescribe Lipitor to diabetic patients, particularly those with diabetes-related kidney or eye issues, or those who smoke, to lower the risk of cardiovascular events.^[1]

Pfizer has applied to the FDA for approval of an over-the-counter version of Lipitor that consumers would be able to obtain without a doctor's prescription. In the past, the FDA has rejected efforts to market non-prescription cholesterol drugs.^[2]

Contents 1 About Lipitor 2 Lipitor Side Effects 3 Lipitor Coupons 4 Treating High Cholesterol 5 References

About Lipitor

In conjunction with a low-fat diet, Lipitor has the potential to lower total cholesterol up to 45% by decreasing LDL, or "bad" cholesterol, and triglycerides. It can also raise HDL, or "good" cholesterol, levels.

Lipitor tablets come in 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg strengths. Lipitor users can take advantage of the free “My Heart Wise” Program, a 12-week guide to managing cholesterol.^[1]

Patients can save money on Lipitor with the Lipitor $4 Co-Pay Card. This can reduce the insurance co-pay of eligible patients to as little as $4 for each monthly prescription of Lipitor, and covers up to $50 of the out-of-pocket cost for each prescription.

Lipitor Side Effects

Patients taking Lipitor may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and upset stomach as well as muscle and joint pain. Some patients also get serious muscle problems that can result in kidney failure. Because Lipitor can cause liver issues, doctors may order laboratory tests to monitor liver function. Those taking Lipitor are advised to report symptoms like tiredness, nausea and vomiting, dark-colored urine, or a yellow tint in the skin or eyes.^[1]

Lipitor can be dangerous for patients with liver problems. In addition, it is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing.

Lipitor is typically only considered an option for those who cannot control their cholesterol levels through diet and exercise. Lipitor offers the free My HeartWise 12-Week Guide to Managing Cholesterol, designed to help patients not taking Lipitor or other medications to lower cholesterol through learning new habits.^[1]

According to a study conducted in the United Kingdom that was published in the European Heart Journal, a positive Lipitor side effect seems to be the prevention of deaths due to infection and respiratory disease. In the trial, subjects who took Lipitor had a 14% lower mortality rate than those who took a placebo.^[3]

Lipitor Coupons

Treating High Cholesterol

There are several ways to help lower levels of "bad" cholesterol, regardless of whether or not one is taking prescription medication. The American Heart Association recommends consuming a diet that is plentiful in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. In general, high-fiber foods can be beneficial to those suffering from high cholesterol. They also recommend engaging in physical activity for at least 1/2 an hour each day. Both first and secondhand tobacco can negatively affect heart health.^[4]

Also See: Lipitor Patient Assistance Programs, Lipitor Coupons, Lipitor Side Effects, Lipitor Recall, Plavix, Statin Side Effects, Statin Coupons

References

1. ↑ ^{1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6} http://www.lipitor.com/aboutLipitor/benefitsOfLipitor.aspx
2. ↑ http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424053111903885604576486393490294726.html
3. ↑ http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2011/08/29/study-lipitor-lowers-more-than-cholesterol/?hpt=hp_bn6
4. ↑ http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/PreventionTreatmentofHighCholesterol/Lifestyle-Changes-and-Cholesterol_UCM_305627_Article.jsp#