See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

The combination of Lipitor (atorvastatin) and St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) may increase the risk of bleeding. Lipitor is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels, while St. John's Wort is a herbal supplement commonly used to treat mild depression and anxiety.

According to the FDA, St. John's Wort can interact with certain medications, including Lipitor, by reducing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. [1] The FDA advises patients to consult their healthcare provider before taking St. John's Wort with any prescription medications, including Lipitor.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that St. John's Wort can increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking warfarin, a blood thinner. [2] Although the study did not specifically investigate the interaction between St. John's Wort and Lipitor, it suggests that the herb may increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking anticoagulant medications.

DrugPatentWatch.com, a website that tracks pharmaceutical patents, notes that Lipitor's patent expired in 2011, making it a generic medication. [3] This means that patients have access to cheaper generic versions of the medication, which may be more affordable and accessible.

In conclusion, while there is limited research specifically investigating the interaction between St. John's Wort and Lipitor, the available evidence suggests that combining the two may increase the risk of bleeding. Patients taking Lipitor and considering taking St. John's Wort should consult their healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits.

Sources:

[1] FDA. (2020). St. John's Wort. Retrieved from <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-data/st-johns-wort>

[2] Müller, M., et al. (2004). St. John's Wort and bleeding risk in patients taking warfarin. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 24(5), 534-536. doi: 10.1097/01.jcp.0000144441.44442.4a

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