Lipitor (atorvastatin) is prescribed for those with dangerous levels of cholesterol which could lead to heart disease. It helps control the risk of stroke, heart attack and levels of fat in the blood which can lead to either stroke or heart attack by slowing down low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or "bad" cholesterol buildup in the body. Lowering LDL can help prevent hardening of the arteries and vascular disease. It is also prescribed for those with type 2 diabetes. However, side effects can be especially dangerous for pregnant women and their fetuses.
Jaundice
Side effects from taking Lipitor can be harmful to pregnant women because of possible harm to the fetus according to the National Institutes of Health. It is to be discontinued immediately if a female patient is found to be pregnant, with one possible side effect that of jaundice according to an FDA warning issued in November, 2004.
Unknown Possible Side Effects
Since there is no cholesterol lowering benefit to a pregnant woman due to hormone changes in pregnancy, RXlist.com states there is no reason to continue Lipitor. They say Lipitor should also be stopped during pregnancy because of the unknown side effects that may harm a fetus.
Risk to Unborn Fetuses
According to the National Institutes of Health, Lipitor, a statin, should be discontinued because of the risk of statins to unborn fetuses. Although that risk may be small, the NIH warned in a November, 2007 "Journal of Obstetric Gynaecology of Canada" article against Lipitor use in pregnant women and states more studies need to be done to ensure their safety.
