Lipitor – uses, health risks, and side effects at NaturalPedia.com

Thursday, September 06, 2018 by Ralph Flores

Lipitor is used to reduce the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as “bad” cholesterol, and triglyceride in the bloodstream. This action increases the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or the “good” cholesterol in the body. The drug is an HMG CoA reductase inhibitor, commonly known as a “statin” drug, and it’s prescribed to treat high cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart complications in people with Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Known health risks or side effects of Lipitor

The common side effects of Lipitor include:

Joint pain
Diarrhea
Stuffy nose
A sore throat
Pain in the arms or legs

In certain cases, taking Lipitor can lead to the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, which then is deposited into the kidney, causing it to fail. Individuals taking Lipitor who experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, and weakness, accompanied by fever, lethargy, and dark colored urine should consult with a healthcare professional.

The following side effects should also be consulted with a healthcare professional:

Pain or a burning sensation while urinating
Signs of liver problems – pain in the upper stomach, weakness, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the skin and eyes
Signs of kidney problems – little to no urination, swelling in the feet and ankles, feeling short of breath.

List of organs that might be affected by Lipitor

The side effects of Lipitor harm the gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, nervous, endocrine, genitourinary, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. It also affects the liver, bloodstream, skin, and vision, and incidences of confusion and depression have been reported.

Food items or nutrients that have similar effects to Lipitor

The following modifications in diet have similar effects to that of Lipitor in reducing LDL levels:

Avoid trans fats. These raise LDL in the blood and decrease HDL, which can negatively affect the cardiovascular system. These are usually found in processed foods and baked goods, as well as in animal products like meat and butter.
Increase intake of fatty fish. Cold water fish – which includes salmon, mackerel, and sardines – are known to reduce triglyceride levels and lower inflammation.
Leave out simple carbs and sugars. Research has linked the consumption of high glycemic index foods (e.g., white potatoes, sugar, white rice, and white bread) to cardiovascular disease. This also includes sugary sodas, which make the body prone to inflammation and increase LDL in the body. Better alternatives include fiber-rich whole grains and fruits like raspberries and pears.
Get more red wine, tea, and curry. Drinking purple juice and moderate amounts of red wine can improve health and reduce inflammation. Green and black tea, as well as the curry spice turmeric, have similar effects.

Treatments, management options for the side effects of Lipitor

Currently, there is limited information on treatments that can reduce the side effects of Lipitor and other statins. However, some studies suggest vitamin D therapy and coenzyme Q10 for managing side effects, while regular stretching exercises, coupled with compression socks, avoiding high heels, and keeping the legs warm can reduce muscle cramps associated with the medication.

Where to learn more

Summary

Lipitor reduces the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglyceride in the bloodstream.

Lipitor is a statin drug prescribed to treat high cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart complications in people with Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Lipitor harms the gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, nervous, endocrine, genitourinary, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems.

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