Atorvastatin and Grapefruit interaction
Atorvastatin and Grapefruit: the Atorvastatin prescribing label flag this combination with the strongest language, such as a contraindication, a boxed warning, or an instruction to avoid it.
Do not combine without a prescriber's guidance. The label language below is the strongest FDA uses.
What the FDA labels say
From the Atorvastatin (Lipitor) label · effective 2024-04-15
Concomitant intake of large quantities, more than 1.2 liters daily, of grapefruit juice is not recommended in patients taking LIPITOR [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ] .
Intervention: Avoid intake of large quantities of grapefruit juice, more than 1.2 liters daily, when taking LIPITOR.
• See full prescribing information for details regarding concomitant use of LIPITOR with other drugs or grapefruit juice that increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis ( 2.5 , 7.1 ).
Grapefruit Juice Clinical Impact: Grapefruit juice consumption, especially excessive consumption, more than 1.2 liters/daily, can raise the plasma levels of atorvastatin and may increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
Curated guidance for Grapefruit
Grapefruit juice raises blood levels of some statins, increasing the chance of muscle damage. The effect is strongest for simvastatin and lovastatin.
Taking more than these two? Interactions stack. Check your whole list at once; it stays in your browser.
Open in the checkerNot medical advice. Interaction Checker quotes FDA label text and NIH fact sheets. Whether an interaction matters for you depends on doses, timing, kidney and liver function, and other conditions. Confirm with a pharmacist or prescriber.