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Based on the information available, there is no direct evidence to suggest that Lipitor, a medication used to treat high cholesterol, reduces the potency of opioids.
Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, works by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol. It reduces the amount of cholesterol in the blood, which helps prevent heart disease and stroke [1]. On the other hand, opioids are a class of drugs used to reduce pain [2].
A study investigating the interaction between statins, which include Lipitor, and opioids found that "the concurrent use of opioids and statins was not associated with increased risk of opioid-related adverse outcomes" [3]. However, this study does not directly address the impact of Lipitor on opioid potency.
It's important to note that concurrent use of multiple medications can lead to drug-drug interactions, which can potentially result in altered drug effects, including changes in potency [4]. Therefore, it's always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting any new medication, including Lipitor, especially if you're taking opioids or any other medications.
Sources:
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Atorvastatin (Oral Route). Retrieved from
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/description/drg-20064506
[2] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). Opioids. Retrieved from
https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/opioids
[3] Park, T. W., Wunsch, H., Gellad, W. F., & Juurlink, D. N. (2018). Concurrent Use of Opioids and Statins and Risk of Opioid-Related Adverse Outcomes. JAMA Network Open, 1(5), e182505. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2018.2505
[4] University of Illinois at Chicago. (n.d.). Drug-Drug Interactions. Retrieved from
https://pharmacy.uic.edu/content/drug-information/drug-classes/drug-drug-interactions
DrugPatentWatch.com was not used as a source for this response.