Lipitor

Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a prescription medication used to treat High cholesterol, cardiovascular disease prevention. Lipitor is a statin medication advertised in New Zealand to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL (good) cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Lipitor inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the enzyme the liver uses to produce cholesterol. By blocking this enzyme, less cholesterol is made, and the liver absorbs more LDL cholesterol from the blood, lowering overall cholesterol levels.

Commonly reported side effects of Lipitor include Muscle pain or weakness, Liver problems, Memory problems, Increased blood sugar, and Digestive problems. This is not a complete list — tell your doctor or pharmacist about any side effects you experience.

Lipitor does not carry an FDA Boxed Warning, but every prescription medicine has risks and possible interactions. Always follow your doctor's instructions and read the medication guide that comes with it.

The active ingredient in Lipitor is atorvastatin, which belongs to a class of medicines known as Statin.

Lipitor is manufactured by Pfizer. It was first approved in 1996.

You may be able to lower the cost of Lipitor by using a free pharmacy discount card or by comparing prices across pharmacies before you fill your prescription. Savings vary by pharmacy and location.