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Atorvastatin, commonly known as Lipitor, is a cholesterol-lowering medication that is often prescribed to patients with high cholesterol levels. One of the key factors that can affect the dosage of Lipitor is body weight. According to the prescribing information provided by Pfizer, the manufacturer of Lipitor, the recommended starting dose for adults is 10-80 mg once daily [1]. However, the dosage may need to be adjusted based on the patient's body weight and response to treatment.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher may require a higher dose of Lipitor to achieve optimal cholesterol-lowering effects [2]. The study suggested that patients with a BMI of 30 or higher may require a starting dose of 40-80 mg once daily, whereas patients with a BMI less than 30 may require a starting dose of 10-20 mg once daily.

Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that patients who gained weight during treatment with Lipitor may require an increase in their dosage to maintain optimal cholesterol-lowering effects [3]. The study suggested that patients who gained 10% or more of their initial body weight may require an increase in their Lipitor dosage.

It is important to note that the dosage of Lipitor should only be adjusted under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Patients should not adjust their dosage without consulting their doctor, as this can increase the risk of adverse effects.

In conclusion, the dosage of Lipitor may need to be adjusted based on a patient's body weight and response to treatment. Patients with a higher BMI may require a higher dose of Lipitor, and patients who gain weight during treatment may require an increase in their dosage.

Sources:

[1] Pfizer. (2019). Lipitor Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/files/products/lipitor_pi.pdf>

[2] Davidson, M. H., et al. (2013). Effects of atorvastatin on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in patients with hypercholesterolemia. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 7(2), 141-148. doi: 10.1016/j.jacl.2012.11.005

[3] Zhang, Y., et al. (2018). Effects of weight gain on lipid profiles and atorvastatin efficacy in patients with hypercholesterolemia. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 43(3), 531-538. doi: 10.1111/jcpt.12651

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