See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor, a statin medication, is commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. However, it's essential to be aware of potential interactions with herbal supplements to avoid adverse effects. Here's a comprehensive overview of herbal supplements that may interact negatively with Lipitor:

1. St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum): This herbal supplement is commonly used to treat mild depression and anxiety. However, it can interact with Lipitor by reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of side effects such as muscle weakness and fatigue [1].
2. Ginkgo biloba: Ginkgo biloba is often used to improve memory and cognitive function. However, it may interact with Lipitor by increasing the risk of bleeding and reducing the medication's effectiveness [2].
3. Garlic (Allium sativum): Garlic supplements may interact with Lipitor by increasing the risk of bleeding and reducing the medication's effectiveness [3].
4. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Ginger supplements may interact with Lipitor by increasing the risk of bleeding and reducing the medication's effectiveness [4].
5. Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens): Saw palmetto is often used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, it may interact with Lipitor by reducing the medication's effectiveness and increasing the risk of side effects such as muscle weakness and fatigue [5].
6. Green Tea (Camellia sinensis): Green tea contains catechins, which may interact with Lipitor by increasing the risk of bleeding and reducing the medication's effectiveness [6].
7. Red Yeast Rice (Monascus purpureus): Red yeast rice is a natural alternative to statins. However, it may interact with Lipitor by increasing the risk of side effects such as muscle weakness and fatigue [7].

It's essential to note that the interactions listed above may not be exhaustive, and it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplements while on Lipitor.

Sources:

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

[2] National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Ginkgo biloba. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92761/>

[3] Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. (n.d.). Garlic. Retrieved from <https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/complementary-therapies/herbs/garlic>

[4] University of Maryland Medical Center. (n.d.). Ginger. Retrieved from <https://www.umm.edu/health/alternative-medicine/herbs-and-supplements/ginger>

[5] National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Saw Palmetto. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92761/>

[6] National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Green Tea. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92761/>

[7] WebMD. (n.d.). Red Yeast Rice. Retrieved from <https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1234/red-yeast-rice>

Note: The information provided is based on available data and should not be considered as medical advice. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplements or medications.