Lipitor

Can lipitor cause muscle cell damage to where the muscles are mushy?

[erijon]

Although mild muscle pain is a relatively common side effect of statins, some people who take statin medications to lower their cholesterol may have severe muscle pain. This intense pain is a symptom of rhabdomyolysis,a rare condition that causes muscle cells to break down. This does not make  your muscle tissue "mushy", it just causes cells t breakdown.

The most common signs and symptoms of rhabdomyolysis include:

* Severe muscle aching throughout the entire body
* Muscle weakness
* Dark or cola-colored urine

These symptoms usually occur in the first 90 days of treatment and happen in less than 1% of those taking Lipitor. If you notice moderate or severe muscle aches after starting to take a statin, contact your doctor. If you have signs and symptoms of rhabdomyolysis, stop taking your statin medication immediately and seek medical treatment right away. If necessary, your doctor may take steps to help prevent kidney damage and other complications.

Again, this is EXTREMELY rare. You should ask your doctor about this for additional information.

Hope this helps,

Jon

[ed34]

Lipitor is quite a strong statin too, there are many other brands which work in slightly different and less aggressive ways. Even lowering the dose can help. Almost all patients who suffer severe muscle pains are able to be pain free when they change to another brand.

[gal122]

Thank you for your insight. My husband has been on this drug for many years and now there is a change that is not good. I will speak to him about your comments.

Thanks again!