Lipitor and Memory Loss

There are many possible side effects that may occur with Lipitor, and memory loss is one of them; however, memory loss has been documented in less than 2 percent of people who take Lipitor. Memory loss with Lipitor is so uncommon that it is often difficult to determine whether the loss of memory is a result of the Lipitor or another factor.

 

Are Lipitor and Memory Loss Related?

While most people tolerate Lipitor® (atorvastatin calcium) well, there are possible side effects that can occur with the medication. For people taking Lipitor, memory loss (known medically as amnesia) is a rare side effect, occurring in less than 2 percent of people taking the drug. Because memory loss with Lipitor occurs so infrequently, it is difficult to know whether the memory loss is a result of Lipitor or caused by something else.
 

Research Concerning Lipitor and Memory Loss

There is little research that has been conducted concerning the effects of Lipitor on memory loss and other brain conditions. Furthermore, the research that has been done is conflicting. For example, some studies have shown that people taking Lipitor have a lower chance of developing dementia. Other studies have shown no benefit.
 
In medical journals, there have been a number of isolated reports of memory loss in people taking Lipitor. However, this number is small compared to the number of people taking Lipitor. Therefore, it is difficult to say whether the memory loss is caused by Lipitor or another factor.
 

Lipitor and Memory Loss: Conclusion

For people taking Lipitor, memory loss appears to occur very infrequently.
 Make sure to talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have concerns about Lipitor and memory loss. Also, keep in mind that it is not possible for your healthcare provider to know whether you will experience a side effect with a medicine that you have never taken. Therefore, if you notice any memory loss while taking Lipitor, talk to your healthcare provider. He or she may recommend adjusting the Lipitor dosage or switching to another cholesterol medication.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;