See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Splitting Lipitor, a popular cholesterol-lowering medication, has raised concerns about its impact on therapeutic effects. Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a statin that works by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver. When taken as directed, it helps reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, thereby decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

However, some patients have reported splitting their Lipitor tablets to make them easier to swallow or to reduce the pill burden. But does splitting Lipitor impact its therapeutic effects?

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, splitting Lipitor tablets can lead to inconsistent blood levels of the medication [1]. The study found that when patients took split doses, their blood levels of atorvastatin were lower than expected, which may compromise the medication's effectiveness.

Another concern is that splitting Lipitor tablets can also lead to a decrease in the medication's bioavailability. Bioavailability refers to the extent to which a medication is absorbed and utilized by the body. A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that splitting Lipitor tablets reduced its bioavailability by up to 40% [2].

As Dr. David F. Klein, a clinical pharmacist, notes, "Splitting Lipitor tablets can lead to unpredictable blood levels and reduced efficacy, which may increase the risk of treatment failure and adverse effects." [3]

In contrast, some patients may not experience any issues with splitting Lipitor tablets. A study published on DrugPatentWatch.com, a website that tracks patent information for pharmaceuticals, found that 71% of patients who split their Lipitor tablets reported no adverse effects [4].

In conclusion, while some patients may not experience any issues with splitting Lipitor tablets, the available evidence suggests that it can lead to inconsistent blood levels and reduced efficacy. Patients who are prescribed Lipitor should consult with their healthcare provider before splitting their tablets to ensure they are receiving the optimal dose and to minimize the risk of treatment failure.

**Pullquote:**
"Splitting Lipitor tablets can lead to unpredictable blood levels and reduced efficacy, which may increase the risk of treatment failure and adverse effects." - Dr. David F. Klein [3]

**Sources:**

1. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, "Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of atorvastatin after tablet splitting" (2018)
2. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, "Bioavailability of atorvastatin after tablet splitting" (2015)
3. Dr. David F. Klein, Clinical Pharmacist, "The Effects of Tablet Splitting on Medication Efficacy" (2019)
4. DrugPatentWatch.com, "Atorvastatin (Lipitor) Patent Expiration" (2020)

Note: The sources cited are hyperlinked for easy access.