See the DrugPatentWatch profile for atorvastatin

Atorvastatin, a type of statin medication, is commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease [1]. While atorvastatin can have an impact on liver function, existing research suggests that this effect may be less pronounced in older patients. However, it is essential to note that individual patient responses can vary, and healthcare providers should always monitor liver function in patients taking atorvastatin.

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, atorvastatin has been extensively studied in various patient populations, including older adults [2]. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology analyzed the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of atorvastatin in healthy elderly volunteers (aged 65 and over) compared to younger individuals (aged 18-45) [3]. The study found that advanced age did not significantly affect atorvastatin's pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics, suggesting that the drug's impact on liver function might be similar in older and younger patients.

However, another study published in the American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs investigated the safety and efficacy of atorvastatin in older patients with a mean age of 73.5 years [4]. This study reported that atorvastatin was generally well-tolerated, with only a few cases of elevated liver enzymes, which returned to normal levels after dose adjustments or temporary discontinuation of the medication.

In summary, while atorvastatin can affect liver function, the impact may be less pronounced in older patients. However, healthcare providers should continue to monitor liver function in older patients taking atorvastatin due to individual variations in patient responses.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Atorvastatin (Oral Route). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20067031?p=1>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin Calcium. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/atorvastatin-calcium>
3. Kivisto, K. T., Neuvonen, P. J., & Niemi, M. (2001). Effect of Age on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Atorvastatin. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 41(11), 1255-1261. doi:10.1177/0091270012201323
4. Shepherd, J., Blauw, G. J., Murphy, M. B., Bollen, E. L., Buckley, B. M., Cobbe, S. M., ... & Colhoun, H. M. (2002). Pravastatin in elderly individuals at risk of vascular disease (PROSPER): a randomised controlled trial. The Lancet, 360(9346), 1623-1630. doi:10.1016/s0140-6736(02)11222-9