See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor
Based on the information available, mixing Lipitor (atorvastatin), a cholesterol-lowering medication, with fish oil might not typically cause severe side effects. However, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before combining any medications or supplements [1].
Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is often used to help reduce triglyceride levels, improve heart health, and decrease inflammation [2]. Lipitor, a statin, works by inhibiting an enzyme responsible for producing cholesterol in the body [3].
Potential side effects of mixing Lipitor and fish oil might include:
1. Increased risk of muscle damage: Both Lipitor and fish oil can independently increase the risk of muscle damage, and combining them might further increase this risk [4][5].
2. Liver enzyme elevation: Both substances can affect liver function, and combining them might lead to elevated liver enzymes [6][7].
3. Gastrointestinal issues: Both Lipitor and fish oil can cause gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain [8][9].
It is essential to consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist for personalized advice, as individual responses to medication and supplements can vary [10].
Sources:
1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Lipitor. Retrieved from
https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor
2. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2018, June). Omega-3 Supplements: An Introduction. Retrieved from
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/omega3-supplements-an-introduction
3. Mayo Clinic. (2021, April 16). Atorvastatin (Oral Route). Retrieved from
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20067100
4. National Library of Medicine. (2021, February 23). Atorvastatin. Retrieved from
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601262.html
5. National Library of Medicine. (2021, February 23). Omega-3-acid ethyl esters. Retrieved from
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601106.html
6. National Library of Medicine. (2021, February 23). Atorvastatin. Retrieved from
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601262.html
7. National Library of Medicine. (2021, February 23). Omega-3-acid ethyl esters. Retrieved from
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601106.html
8. Mayo Clinic. (2021, April 16). Atorvastatin (Oral Route). Retrieved from
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20067100
9. National Library of Medicine. (2021, February 23). Omega-3-acid ethyl esters. Retrieved from
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601106.html
10. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019, March 11). How to Use Drug Labels to Learn More About Your Medicines. Retrieved from
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/how-use-drug-labels-learn-more-about-your-medicines