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The question of whether to consume cheddar cheese while taking Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a common concern for many individuals taking this medication. Lipitor is a statin, a type of cholesterol-lowering medication, and it's essential to understand how it interacts with food, including dairy products like cheddar cheese.

According to the Lipitor prescribing information [1], atorvastatin, the active ingredient in Lipitor, is not significantly metabolized by the liver and is primarily excreted unchanged in the feces. This means that the medication is not significantly affected by food, including dairy products like cheddar cheese.

However, it's essential to consider the potential interactions between Lipitor and cheddar cheese. Cheddar cheese is a rich source of saturated fat, which can increase cholesterol levels in the blood. While Lipitor is designed to lower cholesterol levels, consuming high amounts of saturated fat may counteract the medication's effects.

The American Heart Association recommends limiting dietary cholesterol to 300 milligrams per day [2]. Cheddar cheese can contribute significantly to this daily intake. For example, a single ounce of cheddar cheese can contain up to 30 milligrams of cholesterol. Consuming large amounts of cheddar cheese while taking Lipitor may negate the medication's benefits.

In conclusion, while Lipitor is not significantly affected by food, including cheddar cheese, it's crucial to consider the potential interactions between the medication and dairy products. Moderation is key when consuming dairy products like cheddar cheese while taking Lipitor. It's recommended to follow a balanced diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol to maximize the medication's effectiveness.

Sources:

[1] Pfizer. (2020). Lipitor Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/medicine/lipitor>

[2] American Heart Association. (2020). Cholesterol and Triglycerides. Retrieved from <https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/cholesterol-and-triglycerides>

[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-dates/atorvastatin>