Can I take Atorvastatin and Matcha together?

Why this happens

Matcha contains compounds called catechins (like EGCG) and caffeine. Some studies suggest that high amounts of green tea catechins can interfere with the proteins (transporters) that move atorvastatin in and out of cells, or slightly slow down the liver enzymes that break the drug down. This leads to more of the medicine staying in your system.

You may be experiencing an interaction between atorvastatin and matcha if:

• You notice reduced effectiveness of atorvastatin, such as cholesterol levels not improving as expected.

• You develop new or worsening muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness.

• You feel unusually tired or unwell.

• You experience digestive symptoms, such as nausea or stomach discomfort.

• Blood tests show changes in liver enzymes.

• Symptoms start after regularly drinking matcha or increasing your intake while taking atorvastatin.
  

You do not need to stop drinking matcha, but it is best to consume it in moderation (1-2 cups a day) and avoid taking it at the exact same time as your atorvastatin. If you notice any unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, or if your urine becomes very dark, you should contact your doctor.

If you have any of the above symptoms, you should:

• Speak to your GP or pharmacist for advice as soon as possible.

• Do not stop taking atorvastatin suddenly unless advised by a healthcare professional.

• Consider spacing matcha and atorvastatin if recommended, or reducing matcha intake.

• Seek urgent medical help if you develop severe muscle pain, weakness, or dark urine.

• Attend any blood tests arranged to monitor cholesterol levels or liver function.
  

Pregnancy

You must not take atorvastatin if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as it may harm the developing baby. Use effective contraception while taking this medicine.

Muscle disorders

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

Liver health

Both atorvastatin and high-strength green tea extracts (like matcha) can affect liver function. If you consume large amounts of matcha, your doctor may need to monitor your liver enzymes more closely.

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. Avoid drinking large quantities (more than 1.2 litres daily), though it is safest to avoid it altogether while taking this medicine.

Alcohol

While a small amount of alcohol is generally safe, drinking large amounts of alcohol regularly or binge drinking can increase the risk of liver problems when taking atorvastatin. It can also increase the risk of muscle side effects.

Dairy products

Adding milk to matcha may reduce the absorption of the beneficial antioxidants (catechins) found in the tea, though this does not affect the safety of the drink.

Foods high in Vitamin K

Matcha is very high in Vitamin K. If you are taking blood-thinning medication like warfarin, sudden changes in how much matcha you drink can interfere with how your medication works. Keep your intake consistent.

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.