Uses
Atorvastatin is known as a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. It works in the liver by stopping the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, which is then eventually converted to cholesterol. This causes the liver to absorb cholesterol from the blood stream, and lowers levels of LDL cholesterol along with triglycerides. It is used to treat conditions such high cholesterol, high triglycerides and for heart attack prevention.
How to Use
Take this medication by mouth with water. This medication can be taken with or without food. Be sure to take it regularly, exactly as directed.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is already almost time for your next dose, take only that next dose. Do not double up on any dose.
Important Information
Be sure that your prescribing doctor is aware if you have any of the the following conditions before taking this medication
Alcohol consumption, previous strokes, kidney or liver diseases, muscle pain, allergic reactions, pregnancy or breastfeeding, other health conditions.
Side effects that should be immediately reported to your healthcare provider
Allergic reaction(hives, itching, rashes, swelling of the face or mouth), trouble breathing, darkened urine, joint or muscle pain, fever, changes in passing or amount of urine, fatigue, yellowing of eyes or skin, any red blistering, loosening or peelings skin,
Other Side Effects
Heartburn, constipation, upset stomach or stomach gas, diarrhea.
Dose
Hypercholesterolemia
10-80 mg by mouth once daily.
Sources
1. Executive Summary of the Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP). Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (Adult Treatment Panel III). JAMA 2001;285:2486-2497.
2. Grundy SM, Cleeman JI, Merz CN, et al. Implications of recent clinical trials for the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines. Circulation 2004;110:227-39.
3. Lipitor® oral tablets, atorvastatin calcium oral tablets[package insert]. New York, NY: Pfizer (Per FDA); 2012.
