Long-Term Lipitor Side Effects

Lipitor is a commonly prescribed drug for people with high cholesterol levels. Although Lipitor has been used by thousands of people without any adverse isssues, some do experience side effects with this drug. Just like with any other drug or treatment, make sure to discuss your medical history fully with your doctor before taking Lipitor.

Function

Lipitor can help lower the risk of heart disease by lowering bad cholesterol (LDL), raising good cholesterol (HDL) and lowering triglyceride levels in your blood. By doing so, Lipitor helps keep your arteries from hardening, which reduces your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Time Frame

Lipitor can start working to lower cholesterol in as little as two weeks.

Side Effects

Mild long-term side effects of Lipitor include headache, constipation, diarrhea, gas, rash, stomach pain, infections, sinus inflammation and joint pain. Serious long term side effects include muscle damage, which may lead to kidney failure, and liver damage.

Considerations

If you are interested in Lipitor, make sure to tell your doctor if you have thyroid disease or diabetes, are a heavy drinker, take other medications or have frequent muscle pain, because it might not be right for you. You also should not take Lipitor if you have kidney or liver disease.

Misconceptions

Lipitor doesn't just work by itself. You also have to commit to a cholesterol-lowering diet in order for Lipitor to work to its full potential.

Resources

• Lipitor website
• Lipitor side effects