What is Atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin, a member of the HMG CoA reductase inhibitors or statins, is prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol levels while reducing triglycerides. It's used to treat:
- High cholesterol
- Mitigate the risk of stroke
-
Heart attack
- Other heart complications in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
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Atorvastatin Uses
- Atorvastatin works in reducing the amount of cholesterol made by the liver.
- The medicines are used together with diet, weight loss and exercise.
- It is also used for treating heart attack and stroke.
- It also helps in preventing cholesterol from building up in the arteries.
Atorvastatin Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of Atorvastatin are:
-
Diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Gas
- Joint Pain
- Weakness
- Fever
- Nausea
-
Vomiting
- Itching
- Breathlessness
Some of the serious side effects of Atorvastatin are:
- Muscle problems (pain, tiredness)
- Liver Problems
-
Loss of appetite
- Stomach pain
- Dark-coloured urine
- Lack of energy
- Chest Pain
- Bleeding
- Rash
- Hives
-
Urinary tract infections
- Increased transaminases
- Muscle spasms
- Limb Pain
- Mouth and throat pain
- Allergic reaction
- Inflammation
If you have any of these serious symptoms immediately contact your doctor for further assistance.
In any case, due to Atorvastatin if you get any kind of reactions in your body try avoiding it.
A doctor advised you to take the medicines by seeing your problems and the benefits of this medicine are greater than the side effects.
Majority of the people who use this medicine don’t show any side effects.
Get medical help immediately if you get any serious Atorvastatin side effects.
Precautions while taking Atorvastatin
- Before taking Atorvastatin, discuss all medications, supplements, and herbal products with your doctor.
- Let your doctor know if you have any drug allergies.
- Limit alcohol consumption as it can affect the liver.
- Tell your doctor about any current health issues you may have:
-
Liver Disease
- Kidney Disease
-
Myasthenia Gravis
- Heartbeat disorder
- Low levels of potassium in the blood
How to get rid of the side effects?
- Nausea: Try to take simple meals and avoid eating spicy foods. Atorvastatin should be taken after a meal and snack.
- Headaches: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Avoid the consumption of alcohol. Take pain killers in case of severe headache.
- Body pain: If you are facing any unusual body muscle pain because of excessive exercise or hard work then immediately take consultation from your doctor.
How to take Atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin tablets should be taken once daily after eating. Dosage adjustments may occur for optimal results. Regular blood tests are necessary as it may take up to 2 weeks to improve cholesterol levels.
Dosage of Atorvastatin
Generic: Atorvastatin (Tablet) - 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg and 80 mg
Brand: Lipitor (Tablet) – 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg and 80 mg
Dosage for Heart disease
Adult dosage: 10-80 mg once per day
Dosage for Dyslipidemia (Cholesterol problem)
Adult dosage: 10-80 mg once per day
Children dosage (Age 10-17 yrs): 10 mg per day
Overdose
Accidental overdose of Atorvastatin can have harmful effects on bodily functions and may lead to a medical emergency.
Missed dose
Missing one or two doses of Atorvastatin typically has no effect on the body and causes no problems. However, timely dosage is essential for some medications to work effectively. If a dose is missed, sudden chemical changes may occur in the body, and your doctor may advise taking the missed dose as soon as possible.
Atorvastatin Warnings
Atorvastatin can lead to skeletal muscle tissue breakdown, potentially resulting in kidney failure. Avoid the medication if you have allergies, as it may cause severe medical conditions.
Warnings for serious health conditions:
- Pregnancy: Atorvastatin is not recommended during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you get pregnant. It’s better to avoid the usage of Atorvastatin at least 3 months before planning for pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding: Atorvastatin can get into the breast milk and will cause problems for your baby. Talk to your doctor before taking Atorvastatin. It’s better not to use Atorvastatin until you're breastfeeding.
Storage: Store Atorvastatin at room temperature (68ºF to 77ºF) to prevent damage from heat, air, or light. Before taking it, consult your doctor and seek medical help if you experience side effects. Carry your medication when traveling and follow your prescription and doctor's advice diligently.
Atorvastatin vs Rosuvastatin
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