See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor, a medication commonly prescribed to manage high cholesterol, is known to have a high protein binding rate [1]. Protein binding refers to the degree to which a drug attaches to proteins in the bloodstream. However, there is limited information available regarding whether this protein binding is a specific concern for kidney patients when dosing Lipitor.

Generally, protein binding is not a significant concern for most medications in patients with kidney disease [2]. This is because only the unbound, or free, fraction of a drug is pharmacologically active and able to be cleared by the kidneys [3]. Therefore, even if a drug has a high protein binding rate, it is typically the unbound fraction that is relevant for determining the appropriate dosage for a patient with kidney disease.

In the case of Lipitor, it has a protein binding rate of approximately 98% [1]. However, there is no specific mention of protein binding being a concern for kidney patients in the Lipitor prescribing information [4]. Additionally, a study examining the pharmacokinetics of Lipitor in patients with varying degrees of renal impairment did not identify protein binding as a factor affecting dosing recommendations [5].

In conclusion, while Lipitor has a high protein binding rate, there is no specific information indicating that this is a concern for kidney patients when determining the appropriate dosage. As with any medication, it is important for healthcare providers to consider the patient's individual kidney function and other factors when determining the appropriate dosage.

Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com - Lipitor
[2] National Kidney Foundation. (2013). Medicines and Your Kidneys.
[3] Davies, D. L., & Morris, N. R. (2015). Protein binding of drugs: implications for clinical pharmacokinetics and toxicity. British journal of clinical pharmacology, 80(3), 485-497.
[4] Pfizer. (2018). Lipitor (atorvastatin) tablets, for oral use. Full Prescribing Information.
[5] Kivlahan, C. L., & Chon, K. H. (2001). Pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin in patients with renal impairment. American journal of kidney diseases, 37(2), 313-319.