Does anyone know if the side effects of Lipitor can be reversed ?


Question:
My ex mother in law has muscle damage from taking Lipitor, and she was wondering if its permanent? Does anyone know anything about this. She is elderly.

Answers:
Rare cases of muscle inflammation (myositis) and breakdown have been reported with other drugs in this class (HMGCoA reductase antagonists), and it is assumed that this side effect also may occur with atorvastatin. Muscle breakdown causes the release of muscle protein (myoglobin) into the blood and accumulation of the protein in the kidney tubules, resulting in kidney failure.

Although there is no cure for myositis, prompt and aggressive treatment to reduce inflammation of PM and DM can help prevent muscle weakness from progressing and might help restore some of your strength.


Medications: Corticosteroids (i.e., prednisone) and other drugs that suppress the immune system (immunosuppresants) may slow down the attack on healthy tissue and improve skin rash. Your doctor will probably repeat blood tests throughout your treatment for myositis to monitor improvement. You may also want to use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as aspirin or ibuprofin for pain relief.

Exercise: After drug treatment takes effect, a program of regular stretching exercises prescribed by your doctor can help maintain range of motion in weakened arms and legs. Physical therapy may also help prevent permanent muscle shortening. You may also want to add whirlpool baths, heat and gentle massage.

Rest: Getting enough rest is an important component of managing myositis. Take frequent breaks during the day and limit your activity.

Source(s):
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/fact/thr_report.cfm?Thread_ID=266

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