See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

The decision to retest lipid levels while taking Lipitor (atorvastatin) depends on various factors, including the initial lipid profile, treatment goals, and patient response. According to the prescribing information, Lipitor is typically retested 4-6 weeks after initiating therapy to assess the response to treatment [1].

The National Lipid Association (NLA) recommends retesting lipid levels every 3-6 months to monitor the response to therapy and adjust treatment as needed [2]. However, the frequency of retesting may vary depending on the individual patient's situation.

For patients with high-risk cardiovascular disease, the NLA recommends retesting lipid levels every 1-3 months to ensure that LDL cholesterol levels are being effectively lowered and that other lipid parameters are within target ranges [2].

In general, lipid levels should be retested when:

1. The initial lipid profile is not within target ranges.
2. The patient's lipid profile is not responding to treatment as expected.
3. The patient's treatment goals are not being met.
4. The patient's medical condition or medication regimen changes.

It is essential to note that retesting lipid levels should be done in conjunction with regular clinical evaluations and patient education to ensure that treatment goals are being met and that potential side effects are being monitored [3].

In conclusion, the decision to retest lipid levels while taking Lipitor should be based on individual patient factors and treatment goals. Regular retesting can help ensure that lipid levels are being effectively managed and that treatment is being optimized.

Sources:

[1] Pfizer. (2020). Lipitor (atorvastatin) Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=VTR-000001>

[2] National Lipid Association. (2014). Expert Panel on Integrated Guidelines for Cardiovascular Health and Risk Reduction in Children and Adults. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 8(5), 531-543. doi: 10.1016/j.jacl.2014.07.002

[3] American Heart Association. (2013). 2013 AHA/ACC Guideline on the Treatment of Blood Cholesterol to Reduce Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Risk in Adults: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. Circulation, 129(25), e66-e132. doi: 10.1161/01.cir.0000437738.63853.ea

[4] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin (Lipitor) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-dates/atorvastatin-lipitor>