See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Yogurts with Lipitor: Can You Combine the Two?

As a health-conscious individual, you're likely aware of the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and taking your prescribed medications as directed. If you're taking Lipitor (atorvastatin), a popular statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels, you may be wondering if you can combine it with yogurt. In this article, we'll explore the relationship between Lipitor and yogurt, and provide recommendations for yogurts that are safe to consume with this medication.

What is Lipitor?

Lipitor is a prescription medication used to treat high cholesterol levels by reducing the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood. It works by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver, which in turn increases the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.

Can You Take Yogurt with Lipitor?

The short answer is yes, you can take yogurt with Lipitor. However, it's essential to choose a yogurt that is low in fat and calories to avoid any potential interactions with the medication. According to the Lipitor prescribing information, the medication can be taken with or without food, including yogurt.

Why Choose a Low-Fat Yogurt?

Consuming a low-fat yogurt with Lipitor is recommended because high-fat yogurts can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, such as stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea. These side effects are more common when taking statins, including Lipitor.

Recommended Yogurts with Lipitor

Here are some recommended yogurts that are low in fat and calories, making them suitable for consumption with Lipitor:

* Fage Total 0% Greek Yogurt: This yogurt is high in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for those taking Lipitor.
* Chobani Non-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt: Chobani's non-fat plain Greek yogurt is another great option, with only 80 calories and 0g of fat per 6-ounce serving.
* Dannon Oikos Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt: Dannon's Oikos nonfat plain Greek yogurt is a popular choice, with 80 calories and 0g of fat per 6-ounce serving.

Other Tips for Taking Yogurt with Lipitor

In addition to choosing a low-fat yogurt, here are some other tips to keep in mind when taking yogurt with Lipitor:

* Start with a small serving size: If you're new to taking yogurt with Lipitor, start with a small serving size (6-ounce serving) to monitor for any potential side effects.
* Choose a plain yogurt: Avoid flavored yogurts, as they may contain added sugars that can interact with the medication.
* Avoid mixing with other medications: Be sure to take your yogurt and Lipitor separately, without mixing them with other medications or supplements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you can take yogurt with Lipitor, but it's essential to choose a low-fat yogurt to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. By following the recommended yogurts and tips outlined in this article, you can enjoy the benefits of yogurt while taking your prescribed medication.

FAQs

1. Can I take flavored yogurt with Lipitor?
No, it's recommended to choose a plain yogurt to avoid added sugars that may interact with the medication.
2. Can I take yogurt with other statins?
Yes, the same guidelines apply to other statins, such as Crestor and Zocor.
3. Can I take yogurt with other medications?
No, it's recommended to take your yogurt and medications separately, without mixing them with other medications or supplements.
4. Can I take yogurt with Lipitor if I have a dairy intolerance?
If you have a dairy intolerance, it's recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before taking yogurt with Lipitor.
5. Can I take yogurt with Lipitor if I'm lactose intolerant?
If you're lactose intolerant, you may want to consider a lactose-free or low-lactose yogurt alternative.

Sources

1. Lipitor Prescribing Information. Pfizer. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/files/products/uspi_lipitor.pdf>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/atorvastatin>
3. Fage Total 0% Greek Yogurt. Fage. Retrieved from <https://www.fageusa.com/products/total-0-greek-yogurt/>
4. Chobani Non-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt. Chobani. Retrieved from <https://www.chobani.com/products/non-fat-plain-greek-yogurt/>
5. Dannon Oikos Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt. Dannon. Retrieved from <https://www.dannon.com/products/oikos-nonfat-plain-greek-yogurt/>