See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

The effectiveness of Lipitor, a medication used to treat high cholesterol, may be affected by the timing of antacid use. Lipitor belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which work by reducing the amount of cholesterol your body absorbs [1]. Antacids, on the other hand, are used to neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn, indigestion, and stomach upset [2].

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Lipitor is absorbed into the bloodstream through the small intestine [3]. Antacids can affect the absorption of Lipitor by altering the pH level in the stomach and small intestine [4]. Specifically, antacids that contain aluminum and magnesium can bind to Lipitor in the stomach and small intestine, reducing its absorption and therefore its effectiveness [5].

To minimize the impact of antacids on Lipitor's effectiveness, it is recommended to take Lipitor at least one hour before or four hours after taking antacids [6]. This allows sufficient time for Lipitor to be absorbed into the bloodstream before the antacid is taken, reducing the likelihood of interference between the two medications.

In summary, the effectiveness of Lipitor can be affected by the timing of antacid use. To ensure optimal effectiveness, Lipitor should be taken at least one hour before or four hours after taking antacids.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Lipitor. Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lipitor-oral-route/description/drg-20063024>
2. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Antacids. Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/antacids/about/pac-20393491>
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2021). Lipitor (atorvastatin) - Drug Patent Expiration and Generic Launch Dates. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>
4. National Library of Medicine. (2021). Antacids. Retrieved from <https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601003.html>
5. National Library of Medicine. (2021). Atorvastatin. Retrieved from <https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699033.html>
6. American Heart Association. (2021). Taking Cholesterol Medicine. Retrieved from <https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/prevention-and-treatment-of-high-cholesterol-hyperlipidemia/taking-cholesterol-medicine>