Medication module
Can Lipitor (atorvastatin) be crushed?
Also searched as Lipitor · Immediate-release film-coated tablet
Exact formulation checkedImmediate-release film-coated tabletA different strength, suffix, coating, capsule, or manufacturer may have different instructions.
Why
Atorvastatin is an immediate-release film-coated tablet; the film coating is not a modified-release mechanism. It does not appear on the ISMP “Do Not Crush” list and FDA labeling contains no restriction against crushing.
What to ask the pharmacist instead
Ask the pharmacist to confirm crushing is fine for your specific product and whether an oral suspension formulation is available.
SourceFDA labeling (no crush restriction); not on ISMP “Do Not Crush” list
Source checked2026-06-10
Clinical reviewSLP review in progress
Confirm with your pharmacist before changing how any medication is taken. This page never provides dosing guidance.
Confirm the pill before changing it
- Match the generic or brand name and strength on the prescription label.
- Match the exact formulation, especially ER, XR, XL, SR, CR, DR, or EC.
- Use the manufacturer or NDC and imprint as supporting identifiers, then confirm with the pharmacist.
Do not use color or shape alone. FDA guidance notes that approved generic pills can look different while containing the same medicine.
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