See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels. It belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which work by blocking the production of cholesterol in the body [1]. The dosage of Lipitor can impact liver enzyme levels, and it is essential to monitor these enzymes during treatment.

Liver enzymes, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), are proteins found in liver cells. When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, these enzymes are released into the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels [2]. Elevated liver enzymes can indicate liver damage or disease, and monitoring liver function is crucial when taking medications like Lipitor.

Studies have shown that higher doses of Lipitor can lead to elevated liver enzymes [3]. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that patients taking Lipitor at doses of 80 mg had a higher incidence of elevated liver enzymes compared to those taking lower doses [4]. However, it is essential to note that elevated liver enzymes were generally mild and transient, and most patients did not experience any symptoms.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends monitoring liver enzymes before starting Lipitor and periodically during treatment [5]. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of liver problems, such as fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes [5].

In summary, higher doses of Lipitor can lead to elevated liver enzymes, but these elevations are usually mild and transient. Monitoring liver function is crucial when taking Lipitor, and patients should inform their healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms of liver problems.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Atorvastatin (Oral Route). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/description/drg-20065831>.
2. American Liver Foundation. (2021). Liver Enzymes. Retrieved from <https://liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/liver-function/liver-enzymes/>.
3. Gagne, C., Rochon, P., Peloquin, C., & Abrahamowicz, M. (2002). Risk of abnormal liver function tests associated with statin therapy. American Journal of Medicine, 112(4), 291-296.
4. Kostapanos, M. S., Siontis, K. C., & Filioussi, K. A. (2011). Statin-induced liver enzyme abnormalities: a systematic review. American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs, 11(2), 117-126.
5. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2016). Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) Tablets. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/020953s054lbl.pdf>.
6. DrugPatentWatch. (2021). Lipitor. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>.