HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Is Lipitor Advisable While Suffering From Kidney Disease?

default
Posted on Thu, 19 Apr 2018
Question: I have stage 3 kidney disease (BUN 34, creatinine 191, eGFR 38) and my primary care doctor wants me to start Lipitor for my cholesterol (210). I take allopurinol for gout, but no other prescription drugs. My concern is Lipitor's impact on my kidneys. I have read about potential kidney failure resulting from taking Lipitor.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (6 hours later)
Brief Answer:
more likely to occur if there is severe muscle injury

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

Lipitor and all statins can increase the risk of muscle injury. In some cases, severe muscle injury can occur, which can cause a condition called rhadomyolysis.

Rhadomyolysis can kidney damage because of the breakdown of the muscles producing substances that damage the kidney.

Most persons who use statins do not get rhadomyolysis. It would be associated with severe muscle pain.

Statins can protect kidney somewhat because high cholesterol can be associated with kidney damage.

Kidney failure or damage is not one of the main possible complications of lipitor

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Michelle Gibson James (1 hour later)
Who are most likely to get rhadomyolysis? Can I start Lipitor and if I get muscle pain discontinue with low risk to my kidneys?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (10 hours later)
Brief Answer:
yes, can be discontinued

Detailed Answer:
HI

In rhadomyolysis, the intense muscle break down results in the production of substances that travel to and damage the kidneys.

Yes, if you experience muscle pain, it can be discontinued with low risk to the kidneys
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems and comprehensive renal care, talk to a Nephrologist. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Is Lipitor Advisable While Suffering From Kidney Disease?

Brief Answer: more likely to occur if there is severe muscle injury Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic Lipitor and all statins can increase the risk of muscle injury. In some cases, severe muscle injury can occur, which can cause a condition called rhadomyolysis. Rhadomyolysis can kidney damage because of the breakdown of the muscles producing substances that damage the kidney. Most persons who use statins do not get rhadomyolysis. It would be associated with severe muscle pain. Statins can protect kidney somewhat because high cholesterol can be associated with kidney damage. Kidney failure or damage is not one of the main possible complications of lipitor I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions