See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Lipitor, a medication commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels, can increase creatine kinase (CK) levels in some patients [1]. CK is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the heart, brain, and skeletal muscles. Elevated CK levels can indicate damage to these tissues, particularly muscle damage [2].

Doctors monitor CK levels while patients are on Lipitor to detect any potential muscle-related side effects, such as muscle pain, weakness, or damage. This practice is crucial because Lipitor, like other statins, carries a risk of myopathy, a condition characterized by muscle pain and weakness, and, in rare cases, rhabdomyolysis, a severe form of muscle damage that can lead to kidney failure [3].

Increased CK levels may serve as an early warning sign of these conditions, allowing doctors to intervene promptly and adjust treatment plans accordingly. By closely monitoring CK levels, healthcare providers can help ensure patients receive the full benefits of Lipitor while minimizing the potential risks associated with its use [1].

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Drug Patent Expiration & Generic Launch Dates. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/lipitor-atorvastatin/
2. MedlinePlus. (2021). Creatine kinase. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/creatine-kinase/
3. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Statins: Are these cholesterol-lowering drugs right for you? https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statins/art-20045746