Can I take Atorvastatin and Cordyceps together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 25 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
Taking cordyceps with atorvastatin might increase the risk of muscle-related side effects. There is also a theoretical risk that cordyceps could affect how your liver processes the statin, or it could have an additive effect on lowering your cholesterol.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Why this happens
Both atorvastatin and cordyceps can affect liver enzymes (specifically CYP3A4). If cordyceps slows down the breakdown of atorvastatin, the levels of the medicine in your blood could rise, increasing the risk of muscle pain or damage (myopathy). Additionally, because cordyceps may have its own cholesterol-lowering properties, taking both together might lower your cholesterol more than intended.
What you should do
Back to contentsSpeak to your doctor or pharmacist before combining these two. If you decide to take them together, be very alert for any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, and report these symptoms to your GP immediately.
Continue reading below
Using other medicines
Back to contentsTaking 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.
Patient picks for Drug interactions
Treatment and medication
Can I take Fluoxetine and Venlafaxine together?
Taking these two medicines together significantly increases the risk of a rare but serious condition called 'serotonin syndrome'. This happens when there is too much of a chemical called serotonin in your brain. Symptoms can include feeling very agitated, confused, or shaky, as well as sweating, a fast heartbeat, muscle twitching, or diarrhoea. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.
Treatment and medication
Can I take Atorvastatin and Prednisolone together?
Taking atorvastatin and prednisolone together may increase the risk of muscle-related side effects, such as muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. In rare cases, this can lead to a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, where muscle tissue breaks down and can cause kidney damage. Additionally, prednisolone can raise blood sugar levels, which may slightly reduce the effectiveness of atorvastatin in managing your cholesterol profile.
Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
25 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.
Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.