Lipitor

atorvastatin

Brand(s):

• Attor Agitor Lupicure Soraton

Manufacturer:

• Biochem Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd / Ind-Swift Laboratories Ltd. / Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd. / Sandoz Inc.

Disease(s):

• Hypercholesterolemia

Known as:

• CTR / Lipitor

Atorvastatin Calcium Tablets

What is Atorvastatin Calcium?

Atorvastatin calcium is a medication classified as an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, commonly known as a "statin." Its primary function is to lower levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. By reducing these fats, atorvastatin can contribute to a decreased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems in individuals with risk factors for heart disease. It's generally recommended that patients also adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle, including dietary changes and regular exercise, alongside medication.

Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

Before starting atorvastatin, it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about certain health conditions and factors. This includes:

• Regular alcohol consumption
• History of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Muscle aches or weakness
• Any other medical conditions
• Allergies to atorvastatin, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding

How to Take Atorvastatin Calcium

Atorvastatin calcium tablets are taken orally with a glass of water. They can be taken with or without food. Maintain a consistent schedule for taking your doses. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage.

The use of atorvastatin in children should be discussed with a pediatrician. While it may be prescribed for some conditions in children as young as 10, specific precautions apply.

In case of an overdose, immediately contact a poison control center or emergency room.

Remember: This medication is for your individual use only. Do not share it with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double the dose.

Potential Drug Interactions

Avoid taking atorvastatin with the following medications:

• Antifungal medications such as itraconazole and voriconazole
• Other cholesterol-lowering medications
• Red yeast rice
• Telithromycin

Atorvastatin may also interact with:

• Alcohol
• Antacids
• Birth control pills
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin, troleandomycin)
• Cyclosporine
• Digoxin
• Diltiazem
• Fluconazole
• Grapefruit juice
• Imatinib (STI-571)
• Ketoconazole
• HIV medications
• Nefazodone
• Verapamil

This isn't an exhaustive list of all possible interactions. Always provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, herbs, over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements you're using. Also disclose any alcohol or tobacco use, or use of illicit drugs.

Monitoring Your Health While Taking Atorvastatin

Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential. You may require periodic blood tests to monitor your liver function.

Report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by fever or fatigue, to your doctor immediately.

Atorvastatin is only one component of a comprehensive heart-health program. Your doctor or a dietitian can advise you on a suitable low-cholesterol, low-fat diet. It's also important to limit alcohol consumption, avoid smoking, and maintain a regular exercise routine.

Do not use atorvastatin if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. There's a risk of serious side effects to the unborn child or infant. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional information.

Inform your healthcare professional that you're taking atorvastatin if you're scheduled for surgery.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects requiring immediate medical attention:

• Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of face, lips, or tongue)
• Dark urine
• Fever
• Joint pain
• Muscle cramps or pain
• Skin redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening (including inside the mouth)
• Changes in urination (difficulty or volume)
• Unusual weakness or fatigue
• Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)

Side effects that usually don't require medical attention (but report to your doctor if persistent or bothersome):

• Constipation
• Heartburn
• Stomach gas, pain, or upset

This isn't a complete list of all possible side effects.

Storage Instructions

Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.