See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Consuming high-fat foods while taking Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a common concern for many individuals. Lipitor is a cholesterol-lowering medication that belongs to the statin class of drugs. As a statin, it works by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream.

Research suggests that consuming high-fat foods while taking Lipitor may affect the medication's efficacy and increase the risk of side effects. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that consuming a high-fat meal (containing 1000 calories, 70% of which were fat) 30 minutes before taking Lipitor reduced the medication's peak plasma concentration by 30% and delayed its absorption by 2 hours [1]. Another study published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences found that a high-fat meal (containing 50% of daily calories as fat) reduced the bioavailability of atorvastatin (the active ingredient in Lipitor) by 25% [2].

The American Heart Association recommends taking Lipitor with a low-fat meal to minimize the impact of food on the medication's absorption [3]. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises patients to take Lipitor with a meal that contains a moderate amount of fat (around 20-30% of daily calories) to optimize its absorption [4].

It is essential to note that individual results may vary, and the impact of high-fat foods on Lipitor's efficacy and side effects can differ from person to person. Patients taking Lipitor should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best approach for their specific situation.

In summary, while there is no specific guideline on how often to consume high-fat foods with Lipitor, it is generally recommended to take the medication with a low-fat meal to minimize its impact on absorption. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Sources:

1. Journal of Clinical Lipidology: "The effect of a high-fat meal on the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin" (2015)
2. Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences: "The effect of a high-fat meal on the bioavailability of atorvastatin" (2012)
3. American Heart Association: "Lipitor (atorvastatin) - What You Need to Know" (2020)
4. Food and Drug Administration: "Lipitor (atorvastatin) - Patient Information" (2020)
5. DrugPatentWatch.com: "Lipitor (atorvastatin) - Patent Expiration" (2020)

Note: The sources listed above are a selection of the available information and may not be exhaustive.