Lipitor and Muscle Pain

People may experience many different side effects while taking Lipitor, and muscle pain is one of them. In research studies, muscle pain occurred in up to 5.6 percent of people taking Lipitor. Most people who take Lipitor and have muscle pain experience no other related symptoms; however, in less than 1 percent of cases such muscle pain could be the sign of serious muscle problems. Some drugs can interact with Lipitor, and muscle pain that results in such instances may also be a sign of serious problems.

 

An Introduction to Lipitor and Muscle Pain

In most cases, people tolerate Lipitor® (atorvastatin calcium) well; however, as with any medication, there are possible side effects that may occur with Lipitor. When it comes to Lipitor, muscle pain is one of the most common side effects that people taking the drug experience. In previous clinical studies, muscle pain occurred in up to 5.6 percent of people taking Lipitor. The occurrence of muscle pain did not appear to be related to the Lipitor dosage, in that the highest rate of muscle pain was seen in people taking Lipitor 20 mg, while the lowest was with Lipitor 80 mg (0 percent of people).
 

What to Watch for Concerning Muscle Pain and Lipitor

Most people who have muscle pain while on Lipitor experience no serious muscle-related problems.
 However, in less than 1 percent of cases, people develop a serious problem with their muscles while on Lipitor, and muscle pain can be a sign of 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 cause muscles to break down, which can cause the kidneys to stop working properly (acute kidney failure), and in some cases lead to loss of life.
 
If you develop muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (especially if you also have a fever or feel ill) while on Lipitor, call your healthcare provider immediately. This could be a sign that you have a serious condition that needs treatment right away.
 
(Lipitor and Muscle Pain Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;