Is Lipitor Safe To Take With Nattokinase?

Answer

Thanks for reaching out! Our drug-supplement interaction checker does not list an interaction between nattokinase and Lipitor (atorvastatin) [Nattokinase - Lipitor Interaction Details | HelloPharmacist]. They are generally considered safe to take together, and there is no well-documented evidence suggesting a harmful interaction between them.

Additional Info

Nattokinase is an increasingly popular dietary supplement that is worth understanding before use, especially if you're also taking medications that affect blood clotting.

Nattokinase is an enzyme extracted from natto, a Japanese-style food made from fermented soybeans. It has been used for centuries in Japan and is most often marketed as a natural fibrinolytic agent in dietary supplements, meaning it helps break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting. Some early research suggests nattokinase may have mild blood-thinning and blood pressure-lowering effects, which is why it's often promoted for cardiovascular health.

The mechanism of action of nattokinase differs from how statins like Lipitor work (which primarily lower cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase). Lipitor does not affect blood clotting.

There is a theoretical concern when nattokinase is combined with medications that affect blood clotting, such as aspirin, warfarin, Plavix or other blood-thinning agents. These combinations may increase the risk of bleeding. However, as mentioned, Lipitor does not work as a blood thinner, so this specific concern does not apply to the Lipitor-nattokinase combination.

It's also worth noting that nattokinase may reduce blood pressure, which is why our website lists it as having possible interactions with antihypertensives.

Final Words

If you're considering taking nattokinase for heart health, as always, it's best to let your healthcare provider know so you can be appropriately monitored.

Let us know if you'd like us to check any other supplements or medications you're taking!