Lipitor and Muscle Aches

There are many potential side effects that may occur with Lipitor, and muscle aches developed in up to 5.6 percent of people taking Lipitor in research studies. In most people taking Lipitor, muscle aches occur without more serious symptoms; however, if you are taking Lipitor and muscle aches develop (especially with a fever or illness), call your healthcare provider -- the muscle pain could be a sign of more serious problems. Lipitor may also interact with other medications, which can increase the chances of developing serious muscle problems.

 

Muscle Aches With Lipitor: An Introduction

Muscle aches (or pain) are relatively common side effects of Lipitor® (atorvastatin calcium), occurring in up to 5.6 percent of people taking the drug in clinical studies. Muscle aches are more common when people first start taking Lipitor (or when they start taking an increased Lipitor dosage). For most people taking Lipitor, muscle aches occur without any other more serious muscle-related symptoms.
 

Lipitor and Muscle Aches -- What to Watch For

In less than 1 percent of cases, people develop a serious problem with their muscles while on Lipitor, and muscle aches can be one symptom of such serious problems.
 Two serious muscle problems that are rarely seen in people taking Lipitor are myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. Rhabdomyolysis is very serious because it can lead to muscle breakdown, which can cause the kidneys to stop working properly (acute kidney failure) and in some cases result in loss of life.
 
If you are taking Lipitor and develop muscle aches, weakness, tenderness, or pain (especially if you also have a fever or feel ill), call your healthcare provider immediately. This could be a sign that you have a serious condition that needs treatment right away.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;