Lipitor is an anti-cholesterol medication used to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, as mentioned in Medline Plus, a website supported by the National Institutes of Medicine. Lipitor is classified under the HMG-CoA reducatase inhibitors, otherwise known as statins medication category. Statins act by lowering the body's cholesterol levels and other fatty substances in the blood. Too much cholesterol and fatty substances can build plaques in the blood vessels, causing blockage that can disrupt and affect the blood circulation. Lipitor has several side effects.
Diarrhea
Based on information provided by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, diarrhea is one of the possible side effects of Lipitor. This drug also suppresses the adrenal cortex, the part of the brain that controls gastrointestinal function. When the body experiences adrenal suppression, diarrhea can occur. This side effect usually resolves in time but in some cases, diarrhea can become severe and long-term. In these situations, doctors can decrease the dose of the medication or prescribe another anti-cholesterol drug.
Headaches
Headache is among the potential side effects of Lipitor, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Headaches have various frequencies, intensities, qualities, aggravating and relieving factors. Headaches occur when nociceptors, pain-sensitive nerve endings, react to triggering and aggravating stimulants such as stress, certain medications and irritating foods and odors. When cholesterol levels decrease too much, membrane degeneration can occur in the nerves and neurons, which can lead to headaches.
Loss of Appetite
According to MedlinePlus, loss of appetite is one of the possible side effects of Lipitor. Adrenal hormones play a significant role in a person's appetite and eating behavior. Lipitor depresses adrenal function, and patients taking this drug may lose their appetites, which can lead to unintentional weight loss and nutritional imbalances.
