Is it OK to split a 40 MG Lipitor tablet so as to only take 20 MG per day?

Ronald Lovell,

Thanks for your question. 

First of all, never change the dosage of a medication without discussing it with your physician.  Much thought and consideration went into making the decision about which medication and dosage would be best for you.  If you have a reason for changing his/her recommendation, you need to bring this to his/her attention.  Your doctor will listen to your concerns and take them into consideration. 

Now, if you are asking whether it is safe to split a tablet to get to the recommended dosage, the answer is yes.  Lipitor does not have special coating or formulation that makes it a timed-release medication.  Breaking the tablet in half will not alter its function or metabolism.

I hope this has been helpful.   Please review our entire website about cholesterol including the areas about lifestyle and diet.  There are many tips to assist you in getting your cholesterol down in conjunction with medication prescribed by your doctor.

Martin Cane, M.D.

It is ok, but it may be difficult to split because it doesn’t have a score line. You can try taking it to your local pharmacy to see if they’ll split the tablets for you.