Side effects of lipitor

Lipitor

Lipitor is a medication which is used in treatment for high cholesterol level. It also lowers the level of triglycerides in the blood. Lipitor is also given to reduce the risk of various heart diseases and stroke. Since this medications lowers cholesterol, it is advised not to eat food which is rich in fat because Lipitor will not be so effective. For the best results, you should follow a special diet plan as well.

Precautions

Lipitor is not recommended for children under the age of 10. Pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding must not take Lipitor because it may cause harm to the baby. People who have liver disease should not take Lipitor as well. You must tell your doctor if you have any conditions or diseases and if you are taking any other medications before you start taking Lipitor. You doctor will have to adjust the dose in cases of thyroid gland disorder, kidney disease or diabetes. If you drink excessive amounts of alcohol, make sure you inform your doctor about it. If you develop any illness, infection or condition such as seizures or extremely low blood pressure, you must visit your doctor because you will have to stop taking Lipitor for some time.

Side Effects

The side effects of Lipitor which are not considered to be very harmful include mild nausea, mild pain in the muscles and diarrhea. Serious side effects include severe pain or weakness in the muscles, fever, nausea, urine retention, pain in the stomach, changes in appetite, changes in color of urine or stool, swelling of the hands or feet, and jaundice. If you notice any changes, contact your doctor as soon as possible, so the treatment could be adjusted. Other side effects of Lipitor are headache, sleeping disorders, constipation, general weakness, pain in the bones and joints, pain in the chest and skin disorders such as redness, itchiness, peeling of the skin, or blisters. You may also experience side effects which resemble flu symptoms. Such side effects include fever, chills, sore throat, and weakness in the muscles. Allergic reaction to Lipitor includes skin irritation, rash or itchiness, swelling of the lips, tongue or face, tension in the chest and breathing difficulties.

Body Systems

According to the body systems, Lipitor side effect can be classified as gastrointestinal, hepatic, musculoskeletal, hematologic, renal, endocrine, psychiatric, genitourinary, dermatologic, cardiovascular, respiratory and immunologic side effects. There are also side effects which involve the nervous system.