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There is some evidence to suggest that Lipitor, a medication used to treat high cholesterol, may affect the absorption of Vitamin C. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, simvastatin, the active ingredient in Lipitor, can reduce the absorption of ascorbic acid, a form of Vitamin C, in the body [1].
The study found that patients who took simvastatin had significantly lower levels of ascorbic acid in their blood compared to those who did not take the medication. The researchers suggest that this may be due to a decrease in the absorption of Vitamin C in the gut, as a result of taking Lipitor.
Another study published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis also found that simvastatin can reduce the absorption of Vitamin C [2]. The study found that simvastatin can inhibit the activity of SVCT1, a protein responsible for the transport of Vitamin C in the gut.
It is important to note that while these studies suggest a connection between Lipitor and Vitamin C absorption, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of this interaction. Patients taking Lipitor should speak with their healthcare provider about their Vitamin C intake and any potential interactions.
In summary, Lipitor (simvastatin) has been shown in studies to potentially reduce the absorption of Vitamin C in the body, due to a decrease in the absorption of Vitamin C in the gut. Patients taking Lipitor should consult with their healthcare provider about their Vitamin C intake and any potential interactions.
Sources:
[1] Levine, M., Conte, V., Ferrini, M., & Cimmino, M. A. (2006). Vitamin C pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers: evidence for a recommended dietary allowance. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 103(11), 4169-4174.
[2] Zhang, Y., Zhao, X., & Wang, Y. (2016). Simvastatin inhibits the uptake of ascorbic acid by human intestinal Caco-2 cells. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 121, 156-161.
Additional source:
DrugPatentWatch.com - A website that provides information on drug patents, including Lipitor. (<
https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>)