All medication can potentially pose danger when taken in the wrong doses and mixed with other medications and foods. The knowledge of drug-drug and food-drug interactions should be a priority for both the doctor and the patient. Serious issues can arise when patients are unaware of the potential complications of the medications put into the body.
Lipitor
Prescription drugs typically have a generic and brand name. Lipitor is the medication’s brand name while atorvastatin calcium is the drug’s generic name. Lipitor is a statin drug used to treat high cholesterol, elevated LDL and triglyceride levels and prevents the complications of cardiovascular disease. According to drug manufacturer Pfizer, Lipitor along with diet and exercise has reduced cholesterol levels in patients by about 39 to 60 percent since its introduction in 1997. Lipitor is one of the highest-selling prescription drugs in the world, as of September 2011.
Calcium
Calcium is a mineral found in dairy foods, cabbage, broccoli and spinach. Calcium can also be obtained through dietary supplements and medications. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements both males and females between the ages of 9 and 18 should intake 1,300 milligrams per day and males and females between 19 and 50 should intake 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day.
General Contraindications
Lipitor should not be taken by patients who have existing liver problems. Alcoholic beverages are discouraged while taking Lipitor. The use of alcohol can further complicate liver problems; together Lipitor and alcohol can accelerate liver disorders.
Pregnant or nursing women should not take Lipitor. Lipitor can harm an unborn baby and current research is unable to report whether or not Lipitor is excreted in breast milk. As a precaution, nursing mothers should not take the drug.
Lipitor and calcium
According to Pfizer, there are no known side effects for the combination of Lipitor and calcium. Pfizer advises patients to inform the doctor of all prescription medications, over-the-counter medications and vitamin and mineral supplements taken while on Lipitor. Many prescription medications interact with Lipitor, making patient and doctor communication vital to the prevention of contraindicated reactions.
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