Lipitor, an anti-cholesterol drug, has been associated with several side effects including transient global amnesia (TGA), peripheral neuropathy, and reduced kidney function. TGA is a rare condition characterized by sudden memory loss that can last for several hours. Dr. Duane Graveline, a retired family physician, experienced two episodes of TGA while taking Lipitor. He attributed these episodes to the drug and wrote about them in his book “Lipitor, Thief of Memory.”
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires the official prescribing information to include a notification about rare reports of cognitive impairment, memory loss, forgetfulness, amnesia, memory impairment, and confusion associated with the use of all statins including Lipitor.
Another drug, semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), used for weight loss and diabetes treatment, has been linked to hair loss. However, hair loss could also be a side effect of losing weight quickly. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is another medication that can help keep pre-diabetes from turning into Type 2 diabetes. Patients should be aware of the benefits and risks associated with these medications and other nondrug approaches to blood sugar control.
Levocetirizine (Xyzal) is an allergy medication that has been reported to cause vivid, strange dreams at night and even nightmares. Though it is not among the known side effects of the drug, some patients have reported this to be the case.
Patients experiencing side effects of any medication should contact their healthcare provider immediately and report their experiences. It is important to note that not all side effects are common or likely to occur, but patients should be aware of the potential risks of any medication they take.
