Indications
- Atorvastatin is used with a proper diet to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and fats, while raising good cholesterol (HDL).
- It belongs to the statin group and works by reducing cholesterol production in the liver.
- Lowering bad cholesterol and triglycerides, and raising good cholesterol, decreases the risk of heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks.
- Lifestyle changes such as a low-cholesterol diet, exercise, weight loss, and quitting smoking can enhance the medication’s effectiveness.
- Consult your doctor for more details on dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Patient Information Leaflet before starting atorvastatin and with each refill and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.
- Take this medication by mouth, with or without food, as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.
- The dosage depends on your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and other medications you may be taking.
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while using this medication, as it can increase the chance of side effects.
- If taking other cholesterol-lowering drugs (bile acid-binding resins), take atorvastatin at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after these medications to prevent interference.
- Take this medication regularly, at the same time each day, even if you feel well.
- Follow your doctor’s advice on diet and exercise; it may take up to 4 weeks to see the full benefits of the drug.
Side effects
- This medication is prescribed because the benefit is considered greater than the risk of side effects for most people.
- A very small number of individuals may experience mild memory problems or confusion; consult with your doctor if these rare effects occur.
- Statins, including atorvastatin, may rarely cause or worsen diabetes; discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.
- Rare muscle problems may occur, leading to serious conditions like rhabdomyolysis and autoimmune myopathy. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, or signs of kidney problems during or after treatment.
- Liver problems are a rare side effect; contact your doctor if you develop symptoms such as persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, or abdominal pain.
- In rare cases, a serious allergic reaction may occur, characterized by symptoms like rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- This list does not cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice other effects not mentioned above.
Precautions
- Before taking atorvastatin, inform your doctor or pharmacist about allergies and potential reactions to inactive ingredients.
- Discuss your medical history, especially liver disease, kidney disease, and alcohol use, with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.
- Inform your doctor or dentist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products, before undergoing surgery.
- Limit alcoholic beverages, as daily alcohol use may increase the risk of liver problems when combined with atorvastatin. Seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the drug’s side effects, particularly muscle problems.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only, when necessary, as it may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- The passage of this medication into breast milk is unknown. Breastfeeding is not recommended due to potential risks to the infant; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
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