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Alternative Medications to Lipitor: Exploring Options with Your Doctor

As one of the most widely prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications, Lipitor (atorvastatin) has been a staple in many people's treatment plans for high cholesterol. However, with the patent for Lipitor set to expire in 2020, many patients are left wondering if there are alternative medications they can discuss with their doctor. In this article, we'll explore some of the options available and what you should consider when discussing them with your healthcare provider.

Understanding Lipitor and Its Mechanism of Action

Before we dive into alternative medications, it's essential to understand how Lipitor works. Lipitor is a statin, a class of medications that inhibit the production of cholesterol in the liver. By reducing the amount of cholesterol produced in the liver, Lipitor helps to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol, and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol.

Why Consider Alternative Medications?

While Lipitor has been effective in reducing cholesterol levels for many patients, it's not without its side effects. Common side effects of Lipitor include muscle pain, fatigue, and liver damage. Additionally, some patients may experience interactions with other medications or have concerns about the long-term use of statins.

Alternative Medications to Lipitor

If you're looking for alternative medications to Lipitor, there are several options to consider. Here are a few:

Zetia (ezetimibe)

Zetia is a medication that works by reducing the amount of cholesterol absorbed from food in the gut. It's often used in combination with other cholesterol-lowering medications, including statins.

What the Experts Say

"Zetia is a great option for patients who can't tolerate statins or who need additional cholesterol-lowering therapy," says Dr. Steven Nissen, a cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic. "It's also a good choice for patients who have high triglycerides or low HDL cholesterol."

Vytorin (ezetimibe/simvastatin)

Vytorin is a combination medication that combines Zetia with simvastatin, a statin. It works by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced in the liver and absorbed from food in the gut.

What the Experts Say

"Vytorin is a good option for patients who need a stronger cholesterol-lowering medication," says Dr. Nissen. "It's also a good choice for patients who have high triglycerides or low HDL cholesterol."

Crestor (rosuvastatin)

Crestor is another statin medication that works by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced in the liver. It's often prescribed for patients who need a stronger cholesterol-lowering medication.

What the Experts Say

"Crestor is a good option for patients who need a stronger statin," says Dr. Nissen. "It's also a good choice for patients who have high triglycerides or low HDL cholesterol."

Livalo (pitavastatin)

Livalo is a statin medication that works by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced in the liver. It's often prescribed for patients who need a stronger cholesterol-lowering medication.

What the Experts Say

"Livalo is a good option for patients who need a stronger statin," says Dr. Nissen. "It's also a good choice for patients who have high triglycerides or low HDL cholesterol."

Red Yeast Rice

Red yeast rice is a natural supplement that's been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It contains a compound called monacolin K, which works by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced in the liver.

What the Experts Say

"Red yeast rice is a good option for patients who want to try a natural supplement," says Dr. Nissen. "However, it's important to note that the quality of red yeast rice supplements can vary, and patients should talk to their doctor before starting any supplement."

What to Discuss with Your Doctor

When discussing alternative medications with your doctor, there are several things to keep in mind:

Your Medical History

Be sure to share your medical history with your doctor, including any medications you're currently taking and any allergies you may have.

Your Cholesterol Levels

Bring a copy of your cholesterol levels to your doctor's appointment, including your LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels.

Your Lifestyle

Discuss your lifestyle with your doctor, including your diet, exercise habits, and smoking status.

Your Goals

Be clear about your goals with your doctor, including what you hope to achieve with alternative medication.

Conclusion

While Lipitor has been a widely prescribed medication for high cholesterol, there are alternative medications available that can be discussed with your doctor. By understanding the different options and what they can offer, you can work with your healthcare provider to find a treatment plan that's right for you.

Key Takeaways

* Zetia and Vytorin are alternative medications to Lipitor that work by reducing the amount of cholesterol absorbed from food in the gut.
* Crestor and Livalo are statin medications that work by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced in the liver.
* Red yeast rice is a natural supplement that contains a compound that works by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced in the liver.
* When discussing alternative medications with your doctor, be sure to share your medical history, cholesterol levels, lifestyle, and goals.

FAQs

Q: What are the side effects of Zetia?

A: Common side effects of Zetia include diarrhea, stomach pain, and muscle pain.

Q: Can I take Zetia with other medications?

A: Yes, Zetia can be taken with other medications, including statins. However, it's important to talk to your doctor before starting any new medication.

Q: What is the difference between Vytorin and Lipitor?

A: Vytorin is a combination medication that combines Zetia with simvastatin, a statin. Lipitor is a statin medication that works by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced in the liver.

Q: Can I take Crestor with other medications?

A: Yes, Crestor can be taken with other medications, including blood thinners. However, it's important to talk to your doctor before starting any new medication.

Q: Is red yeast rice safe?

A: Red yeast rice is generally considered safe when taken as directed. However, it's important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-date/Lipitor>
2. Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Cholesterol Medications. Retrieved from <https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14175-cholesterol-medications>
3. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Red Yeast Rice. Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/red-yeast-rice/faq-20058413>

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