See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

After reviewing the available information, it appears that Lipitor, a medication used to treat high blood cholesterol, can have side effects that may be worsened by the use of certain supplements.

Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, works by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol in your blood [${3}]. However, like all medications, Lipitor can have side effects. According to the Mayo Clinic, common side effects of Lipitor include muscle and joint pain, constipation, nausea, and urinary tract infections [${2}].

Of particular relevance to your question, the Mayo Clinic notes that certain supplements, such as red yeast rice, can also lower cholesterol levels and may increase the risk of side effects when taken with Lipitor [${2}]. This is because red yeast rice contains a natural form of the active ingredient in Lipitor, which can increase the risk of muscle-related side effects such as muscle pain or weakness [${2}].

The National Health Service (NHS) also notes that grapefruit juice can interact with Lipitor and increase the levels of the medication in your blood, potentially leading to side effects [${3}]. However, it's important to note that this interaction is not related to supplements per se, but rather to a chemical found in grapefruit juice that can affect the way Lipitor is metabolized in the body.

In summary, based on the available information, certain supplements such as red yeast rice may worsen Lipitor side effects by increasing the risk of muscle-related side effects. Additionally, grapefruit juice can interact with Lipitor and increase the levels of the medication in your blood, potentially leading to side effects. As always, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements or making significant changes to your diet while taking Lipitor.

Sources:

* <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR>
* <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013>
* <https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/atorvastatin/side-effects-of-atorvastatin/>