Lipitor is the brand name for the drug atorvastatin. The FDA approved Lipitor in 1996 and it has been prescribed since 1997 to help lower cholesterol and to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Lipitor is manufactured by Pfizer and it is one of the best selling drugs of all time, and at one point was the most widely prescribed drugs in the United States. Recent medical studies have linked an increased risk for type 2 diabetes (also called “adult onset diabetes) in those who take this popular medication. As a result of these studies, in 2012 the FDA required Pfizer to update Lipitor’s label to include the increased risk of type 2 diabetes
Which patients are at risk?
The studies found that some groups may be more at risk than others. These groups include:
1. Patients who already have an increased risk for type 2 diabetes. Some factors for being at risk for developing adult-onset diabetes include:
· Being overweight
· High blood sugar
· High blood pressure
· Elevated triglycerides
Obviously, there is some overlap in the risk factors for adult onset diabetes and high cholesterol, so ask your medical professional for help in addressing your concerns.
2. Post-menopausal women. One study conducted over a 12-year period showed that postmenopausal women with other risk factors were nearly 50% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than when taking Lipitor than the women who took a placebo.
3. Patients who take high doses of Lipitor. The studies have also shown that a higher dose of Lipitor increased the risk of developing diabetes.
Remember, if you are taking Lipitor, don’t stop taking it without your doctor’s prior approval.
If you or a loved one was taking Lipitor and developed Type 2 diabetes, please call us at toll free at 1-877-895-9191 or use our online Contact Form.