See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Before prescribing Lipitor (atorvastatin), a cholesterol-lowering drug, healthcare providers often order liver function tests to ensure the patient's liver is healthy enough to metabolize the medication. These tests typically include:

1. Alanine transaminase (ALT) [1]: ALT is an enzyme found in the liver. High levels of ALT in the blood may indicate liver damage or disease.
2. Aspartate transaminase (AST) [1]: AST is another enzyme found in the liver, heart, and other organs. Elevated AST levels can suggest liver problems.
3. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) [1]: ALP is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the liver and bones. High ALP levels can indicate liver disease or other health issues.
4. Total bilirubin [1]: Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced by the liver when it breaks down old red blood cells. Increased bilirubin levels can indicate liver problems or other medical conditions.

Healthcare providers may also consider a patient's medical history, lifestyle factors, and other medications when deciding whether to prescribe Lipitor. Regular monitoring of liver function tests during Lipitor treatment is also essential to ensure the medication's safety and effectiveness.

Sources:

[1] "Liver Function Tests." Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 15 Jan. 2021, [www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/liver-function-tests/about/pac-20385078](http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/liver-function-tests/about/pac-20385078).

[2] "Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) Tablets, for Oral Use." DailyMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine, [dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=63b52e3e-9e3e-4e1f-a5b5-a9f588268e0d&type=display](http://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=63b52e3e-9e3e-4e1f-a5b5-a9f588268e0d&type=display).

[3] "Atorvastatin." DrugPatentWatch.com, [www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/atorvastatin](http://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/atorvastatin).