Atorvastatin belongs to a class of drugs called statins. It helps to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood when diet and lifestyle changes on their own have failed. It is prescribed for patients at an increased risk of heart disease or those who have a high cholesterol.
You should avoid taking this medicine if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or if you have or had any liver disease. Women who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding, should also avoid Atorvastatin.
Take special care when taking Atorvastatin if you have previously had a stroke, kidney problems, hypothyroidism, muscle problems, if you are older than 70 years or if you regularly drink large amounts of alcohol.
If you forget a dose, take it immediately when you remember it and continue with the normal schedule. In case you take an overdose, call your doctor immediately.
Atorvastatin can lead to side effects, however not everyone may experience them. - Common side effects include; - Inflammation of the nasal passages - Nose bleeds - Throat infection - Nausea, indigestion - Headache - Joint pain, muscle pain - Blood tests that show abnormal liver function
If you experience any serious side effects such as an allergic reaction that leads to swelling of the throat, tongue or face, skin rashes or muscle weakness, stop taking the medication and seek urgent medical help.
You must take the medicine, exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Before starting treatment, your doctor will place you on a low-cholesterol diet.
Atorvastatin is usually prescribed as a single dose of 10mg in a day, which is subsequently adjusted depending on your need. It should be swallowed whole with water and can be taken with or without food at any time of the day, preferably the same time every day.
If you accidentally take an extra dose, contact your doctor for advice. If you have forgotten to take a dose, continue with your schedule at take the next dose at the correct time. Do not take a double dose to make up for the forgotten one. Ask your doctor before stopping your treatment.
Atorvastatin is a statin. It works by reducing the production of cholesterol by the liver. It decreases the production of LDL (bad cholesterol), by blocking the enzyme responsible for its production, and increases its removal from the blood. It also causes a slight increase in the level of HDL (good cholesterol).
It therefore reduces the risk of excess cholesterol being deposited in the blood vessels supplying the heart and brain.
