Atorvastatin Tablet, Color : Titanium Dioxide, Packaging Type : Box

Atorvastatin is a widely prescribed medication belonging to a class of drugs called statins.It is primarily used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

• Generic Name: Atorvastatin

   

   

• Chemical Class: HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, commonly known as a statin.

   

   

• Mechanism of Action: Atorvastatin works by blocking an enzyme in the liver called HMG-CoA reductase, which is essential for the production of cholesterol.By inhibiting this enzyme, atorvastatin reduces the amount of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides in the blood while also helping to increase the amount of "good" cholesterol (HDL).

   
   

   

Atorvastatin is used, along with a healthy diet and exercise, to:

• Lower High Cholesterol: It is used to reduce high levels of total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides in adults and in children and teenagers (10 to 17 years old) with certain types of inherited cholesterol conditions.

   

   

• Prevent Cardiovascular Disease: It is prescribed to reduce the risk of a heart attack, stroke, and the need for heart surgery in people who have heart disease or are at high risk of developing it.

   

   

• Forms: Atorvastatin is available as oral tablets.

   

   

• Tablet Strengths: Common tablet strengths include 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg.

   

   

• Typical Dosing: The usual adult dose is 10 mg to 80 mg once a day.The dose is adjusted by a healthcare provider based on the patient's cholesterol levels and treatment goals.

   
   

   

• Timing: It is usually taken once a day, at the same time each day.It can be taken with or without food.

   
   

   

• Duration: Atorvastatin is often a long-term treatment, and it is important to continue taking it as prescribed even if you feel well.

   

   

• Lipitor

   

   

• Atorvaliq

   

   

• Tonact

   

   

• Lipvas

   

   

• Avas

   

   

While generally well-tolerated, atorvastatin can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Headache

   

   

• Joint pain

   

   

• Diarrhea

   

   

• Muscle pain

   

   

• Nausea

   

   

Serious but rare side effects can include:

• Muscle Damage: In rare cases, statins can cause a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, which can lead to severe muscle pain, weakness, and kidney damage. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially with a fever or unusual tiredness.

   

   

• Liver Problems: Liver enzyme levels may increase while on this medication.Your doctor may order blood tests to monitor liver function.

   
   

   

• Increased Blood Sugar: In some people, atorvastatin may lead to an increase in blood sugar levels, which could increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

   

   

• Prescription Only: Atorvastatin is a prescription-only medication and should only be taken under a doctor's supervision.

   

   

• Contraindications: It should not be used in people with active liver disease or in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

   

   

• Drug Interactions: Atorvastatin can interact with a variety of other medications, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, HIV medicines, and grapefruit juice. It is crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.

   

   

• Lifestyle Changes: Atorvastatin is most effective when combined with a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet and regular exercise.