The American Heart Association says statins are the most effective cholesterol-lowering drugs for those with high levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs). Cholesterol levels are lowered by blocking the natural production of cholesterol in the intestines. Among these wonder drugs is a statin by the name of atorvastatin, or Lipitor. But there are many side effects.
Lipitor's Most Common List
Lipitor's most common side effects are also its most harmless. These side effects are the least likely to cause any real health problems and should subside shortly after beginning your prescription: headaches, muscle and joint pain, an increased risk for infection and diarrhea. You may also suffer from inflamed sinuses, unexplained rashes and general weakness. Back pain may plague you, as well as constipation. You may also find stomach pain and a sore throat to be an issue in the beginning.
Liver Damage
Liver damage is associated with all statins, including atorvastatin. This is obviously a serious side effect, and any signs of it should be treated with the utmost concern and reported immediately. These signs include nausea, urine that is darker than normal, light-colored stools, abdominal pain located in the upper right side, and jaundice (a condition that results in a yellowing of your skin and eyes).
Muscle Pain
Although muscle aches and pain are considered a common side effect of atorvastatin, it can quickly become a serious side effect when you begin to feel ill and develop a fever. This is an indication of a condition known as rhabdomyolysis, which results in the breakdown of your muscle and kidney failure.
According to eMedTV.com, dosage doesn't affect whether this occurs. However, the serious muscle problems either begin immediately or when your dose is increased. Whatever your case, contact your doctor immediately if muscle or joint pain becomes a problem. This will prompt treatment as well as a different cholesterol-lowering medication.
Additional Side Effects
Atorvastatin can produce additional side effects that may not occur as frequently. These include but are not limited to lack of appetite, loss of memory, impotence, fainting, high blood pressure, weight gain, depression, hair loss and ringing in your ears. Report these to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
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