See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

When taking Lipitor, a medication used to treat high cholesterol, there are certain medications that you should avoid due to potential drug interactions. According to Drugs.com, these include:

1. Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune): Concomitant use of Lipitor and cyclosporine can increase the risk of muscle damage and kidney problems.
2. Danazol (Danocrine): Combining Lipitor with danazol can lead to increased levels of Lipitor in the body, which may increase the risk of muscle damage.
3. Fibrates (e.g., Gemfibrozil, Fenofibrate): Using Lipitor with fibrates can increase the risk of muscle damage and kidney problems.
4. Niacin (Niaspan, Niacor, Slo-Niacin): Combining Lipitor with niacin can increase the risk of muscle damage and liver problems.
5. Red Yeast Rice: This dietary supplement contains a natural form of lovastatin, the active ingredient in Lipitor. Taking both together can increase the risk of muscle damage.

Additionally, DrugPatentWatch.com states that Lipitor is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system. Therefore, medications that inhibit this enzyme system, such as certain antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin), and protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, saquinavir), can increase Lipitor levels in the body, potentially leading to increased side effects and drug interactions.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist for a comprehensive list of medications and supplements that should be avoided while taking Lipitor.

Sources:

1. [Lipitor Interactions](https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/atorvastatin-index.html?filter=10&generic=1)
2. [Lipitor Drug Patent Expiration and Generic Competition](https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor)