Can I take Atorvastatin and Empagliflozin together?

Why this happens

Atorvastatin and empagliflozin are processed by different pathways in the body. Atorvastatin is primarily broken down by the liver (CYP3A4 enzyme), while empagliflozin is processed through a different liver pathway (glucuronidation) and cleared by the kidneys. They do not interfere with how each other works or how they are removed from the system.

What you should do

You can safely take these medicines together as prescribed by your doctor. Always ensure you stay well-hydrated while taking empagliflozin, and report any unusual muscle pain or weakness (a rare side effect of statins) to your healthcare provider.

Important precautions

Pregnancy

You must not take atorvastatin if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as it can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. Use effective contraception while taking this medicine.

Muscle disorders - atorvastatin

Seek immediate medical advice if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. In rare cases, this can lead to a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis which causes kidney damage.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

Seek immediate medical help if you experience nausea, stomach pain, or fruity-smelling breath. Empagliflozin can cause a serious condition called ketoacidosis, even if your blood sugar levels are near normal.

Food and drink warnings

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice contains compounds that can increase the level of atorvastatin in your blood. This can increase your risk of side effects, such as muscle pain or damage. You should avoid drinking large quantities (more than 1.2 litres daily), but it is safest to avoid it altogether or keep intake to very small amounts.

Alcohol

For atorvastatin: Drinking large amounts of alcohol regularly can increase the risk of liver problems and muscle side effects. For empagliflozin: Alcohol can increase the risk of a serious complication called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and may cause your blood sugar to drop too low (hypoglycaemia). It is best to keep alcohol intake within the recommended low-risk limits.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.