High cholesterol can lead to some serious problems. Cholesterol can block arteries and lead to a condition called atherosclerosis. Left unchecked, atherosclerosis is often deadly, resulting in heart attacks and dissection angina. Because of the threat posed by high cholesterol levels, many people turn to modern medicine and cholesterol-lowering medication. Lipitor is a leading drug in the fight against cholesterol, with over 80,000 people taking the drug. While it's been shown to improve cholesterol levels in those taking the drug, there are plenty of side effects that go along with it.
Common Side Effects
According to the manufacturer's website, Lipitor can cause a number of mild side effects. These appear to be so minor that fewer than 2% of those taking the drug actually discontinue taking it. These side effects run the gamut, from affecting the digestive and gastric tract, the brain, the dermis and the muscles. Things like headaches, constipation, diarrhea, gas, upset stomach, rashes and muscle and joint pain are all fairly common with those taking the drug.
Muscle Problems
For some people, the side effects associated with taking Lipitor can be severe. One such side effect is muscle pain, also called rhabdomyolysis. Muscle pain affects less than 1% of those who take Lipitor. Rhabdomyolysis can cause muscle tissue to break down. This can lead to kidney failure, a fatal complication. The initial signs include muscle soreness and weakness. If you are taking Lipitor and develop any of these sign, stop taking the drug immediately.
Liver Damage
Taking Lipitor can also lead to liver damage. Symptoms associated with liver damage include yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice), dark urine, an increase in liver enzymes and abdominal pain. If taken for an extended period of time, Lipitor can cause hepatitis, which is a inflammation of the liver. Continued use of the drug for those showing signs of liver damage can lead to liver failure and death.
Rare Side Effects
Less than 2% of Lipitor patients have been found to suffer from other side effects not listed above. These would be considered rare. Impotence, hair loss, depression and asthma are just a few of the complications that have been noted by those taking the drug to lower their cholesterol. Occasional fainting, hearing loss and high blood pressure are some of the others.
What Determines Side Effects
No one really knows why certain people react differently when taking Lipitor. Your physician will have no idea how you will react. Certain medication when taken in concert with the drug have been shown to increase the likelihood of suffering side effect. Ask your doctor if what you're already taking is okay to take with Lipitor.
