The American Academy of Pediatrics released a statement today saying it suggests screening children for high cholesterol as early as age two. The AAP suggests that "cholesterol-lowering medications [LIPITOR] should considered" when treating a child, over the age of eight, with high LDL levels. Pfizer's LIPITOR patient information guide, states that the popular medication can cause "...serious muscle problems that can lead to kidney problems, including kidney failure." Liver problems are also listed as a "rare but serious" side effect. LIPITOR is the best selling drug in pharmaceutical history, with revenues of over $12 billion in 2007. Pfizer's patent on LIPITOR runs out in 2010. The new pediatric application could be grounds for a patent extension.
I'll let you you digest these facts on your own. Remember though, the doctors are the ones prescribing children this drug.
American Academy of Pediatrics Press Release
LIPITOR Patient Information
Forbes
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