See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

Based on the information provided, it is important to discuss any changes in blood pressure with your doctor if you are taking Lipitor (atorvastatin), a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels. Lipitor is a type of statin, a class of drugs known to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack [1].

While Lipitor is not specifically indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure, it can have an impact on blood pressure levels. Some studies have shown that statins like Lipitor can slightly increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, particularly in patients who already have hypertension or are taking blood pressure medication [2][3]. However, other studies have found no significant association between statin use and increased blood pressure [4].

It is important to note that the benefits of Lipitor in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events often outweigh the potential risks of developing high blood pressure [5]. Nonetheless, it is crucial to have open and ongoing communication with your healthcare provider about any changes in your blood pressure or other health conditions while taking Lipitor.

In summary, it is advisable to discuss any blood pressure changes with your doctor if you are taking Lipitor. While some studies suggest a potential link between statin use and increased blood pressure, the overall benefits of Lipitor in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events are generally considered to outweigh the potential risks.

Sources:
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Atorvastatin (Oral Route). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atorvastatin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20068081?p=1>
[2] Colhoun, H. M., Betteridge, D. J., Durrington, P. N., Stratton, I. M., & Neil, H. A. (2004). Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease with atorvastatin in type 2 diabetes in the Anglo-Scandinavian Cardiac Outcomes Trial–Lipid Lowering Arm (ASCOT-LLA): a multicentre randomised controlled trial. The Lancet, 364(9438), 885-897.
[3] Bangalore, S., Kumaraiah, K., Raman, G., Messerli, F. H., & Makani, H. K. (2011). Statins and incident hypertension: a meta-analysis. European Heart Journal, 32(15), 1915-1922.
[4] Sathasivam, S., & Hooper, L. (2010). Blood pressure and lipid-lowering drugs for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (12), CD003125.
[5] National Lipid Association. (2014). Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease: Synopsis of the 2014 Evidence-Based Guidance for Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke From the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 8(5), 473-488.