THIS INFORMATION IS NOT INTENDED TO BE COMPREHENSIVE OR REPLACE THE ADVICE OF YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL. CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL WITH QUESTIONS.

Uses

Lipitor is used, along with a cholesterol-lowering diet, to help lower cholesterol and fats (triglycerides) in the blood.

How to Use

Take Lipitor by mouth usually once daily with or without food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

It may take up to 2 weeks before the full benefit of Lipitor takes effect.

It is important to continue taking Lipitor even if you feel well.

Lipitor Side Effects

Lipitor side effects include headache, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, gas, or stomach upset/pain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: joint pain, muscle pain or weakness, fever, unusual tiredness, chest pain, swelling in the arms or legs, dizziness.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine, change in the amount of urine, vision problems, black stool, severe stomach pain.

An allergic reaction to Lipitor is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

If you notice other Lipitor side effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Lipitor Cautions

Lipitor is not recommended for use if you have the following medical conditions: liver problems.

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart disease, eye problems (eg. cataracts), thyroid problems, uncontrolled seizures, recent serious infection, recent major surgery, low blood pressure, alcohol use, any allergies (especially to other "statin" drugs).

Daily use of alcohol may increase your chance for serious side effects. Limit alcoholic beverages.

Lipitor must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is recommended that women of child-bearing age use effective birth control measures while taking this drug since Lipitor may cause fetal harm.

Lipitor passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Lipitor is not recommended for use with: mibefradil, azole antifungals (eg., itraconazole, ketoconazole). Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: cyclosporine, macrolide antibiotics, (eg., clarithromycin, erythromycin, troleandomycin), fibrates, (eg. gemfibrozil, clofibrate), niacin (nicotinic acid), antacids, dioxin, birth control pills, nefazodone, protease inhibitors (eg., endeavor, ritonavir), rifamycins (eg., rifampin).

Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while using Lipitor unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe vomiting.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Laboratory and/or medical tests (eg. liver function tests) may be performed to monitor your progress.

For best results, Lipitor should be used along with exercise and a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet. Consult your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store Lipitor at room temperature between 56 and 86 degrees F (13 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture