Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering medication that works by blocking the body's production of cholesterol, specifically low-density lipoprotein (LDL). LDL is the "bad" cholesterol that collects in your blood vessels and increases your risk of heart disease, hardening of the arteries, stroke and vascular disease, according to Drugs.com. You can also use this medication to reduce your risk of these conditions. Although beneficial in treating and reducing the risk of vascular disease, atorvastatin has significant side effects that you should be aware of.
Muscle and Joint Pain
Drugs.com reports that muscle pain or tenderness occurs in 6 percent of people taking atorvastatin. Additionally, joint pain occurs in 5 percent and back pain in 4 percent. These side effects are fairly serious and are signs that your body is sensitive to the medication or that you may be taking too much. You should stop taking this medication and alert your doctor if you experience these side effects. You may apply ice to the specific painful muscle, joint or area and take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help reduce these symptoms.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Atorvastatin may cause unwanted side effects in your digestive tract. Nausea, stomach pain and loss of appetite are serious side effects that occur in less than 5 percent of people, according to Drugs.com. You should stop taking atorvastatin and tell your doctor that you are experiencing these effects. Other serious side effects include dark urine, clay-colored stools or jaundice, and may be a sign of liver damage. Atorvastatin blocks the body's production of cholesterol in the liver; thus, if your liver is sensitive to this medication or you take too much, liver damage can occur. Immediately discontinue atorvastatin and call your doctor if you experience these side effects.
Skin Side Effects
The Mayo Clinic states that atorvastatin may rarely cause hives, itching or rash. These side effects are rare and are not a cause for concern. These effects will likely resolve as your body adjusts to atorvastatin. In the meantime, use non-medicated lotion for mild symptoms. For more severe symptoms, take an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as Benadryl, to help reduce these symptoms. Be sure to tell your doctor that you are having these problems.
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