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Lipitor and Alcohol
While combining alcohol and Lipitor is not likely to cause problems, this may not be safe for people who consume large amounts of alcohol on a regular basis. Also, Lipitor may not be safe for people who have long-term alcohol problems or liver disease. Before combining the two, talk to your healthcare provider about what is best for your particular situation.
For most people, a moderate intake of alcohol is unlikely to cause problems with Lipitor® (atorvastatin calcium). However, Lipitor may not be safe for people with long-term alcohol problems or for people who regularly consume large quantities of alcohol.
People with liver disease cannot metabolize Lipitor as well as normal. This leads to abnormally high levels of medication in the blood, which increases the risk of Lipitor side effects. As a result, individuals who currently have liver disease (including alcoholic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis) should not take Lipitor. People who drink large amounts of alcohol or people with a history of liver problems should use this medication with caution, and may require close monitoring to make sure problems do not occur.
You should talk with your healthcare provider about alcohol consumption and Lipitor. You and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. Based on what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, the two of you can make a shared decision about your intake of alcohol while on Lipitor. Keep in mind that there may be other medical reasons why you should not consume alcohol.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD



