See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels. It works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the production of cholesterol in the body [1].

Protein binding refers to the interaction between a drug and a protein in the bloodstream. Lipitor is highly protein-bound, with approximately 98% of it binding to plasma proteins [2]. This binding is reversible and does not affect the therapeutic efficacy of the drug.

As for the question of whether Lipitor's protein binding can influence kidney function during filtration, the available information does not suggest a direct correlation. The kidneys filter blood through a process called glomerular filtration, which primarily involves the filtration of unbound substances [3]. Since Lipitor is highly protein-bound, it is less likely to be significantly filtered through the glomeruli [4].

However, it is important to note that Lipitor and its metabolites are excreted by the kidneys, and impaired kidney function can lead to increased drug exposure and potential toxicity [5]. Therefore, patients with kidney disease may require dose adjustments when taking Lipitor [6].

In conclusion, while Lipitor's protein binding does not directly influence kidney function during filtration, impaired kidney function can affect Lipitor's clearance and require dose adjustments.

Sources:
[1] "Atorvastatin." National Library of Medicine, pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Atorvastatin.
[2] "Atorvastatin." DrugBank, go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00335.
[3] "Glomerular Filtration." National Kidney Foundation, www.kidney.org/kidneydisease/howkidneyswork/glomerularfiltration.
[4] "Protein Binding." Medical Dictionary, medilexicon.com/medicaldictionary.php?t=22537.
[5] "Atorvastatin." MedlinePlus, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601244.html.
[6] "Atorvastatin (Oral Route)." Mayo Clinic, www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20064551.