What are the common side effects of atorvastatin. How can patients manage nausea, headaches, and muscle pain associated with Lipitor 80 mg. When should you seek immediate medical attention while taking atorvastatin.

Common Side Effects of Atorvastatin: Recognizing and Managing Symptoms

Atorvastatin, commonly known by its brand name Lipitor, is a widely prescribed statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels. While effective, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Understanding these effects and how to manage them is crucial for patients taking this medication, especially at higher doses like 80 mg.

Are you experiencing discomfort after starting atorvastatin? Common side effects occur in more than 1 in 100 people and may include:

• Nausea and indigestion
• Headaches
• Nosebleeds
• Sore throat
• Cold-like symptoms
• Constipation or flatulence
• Diarrhea

It’s important to note that these side effects often improve after the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Managing Nausea and Indigestion

Experiencing stomach discomfort? Try these strategies:

• Stick to simple, non-spicy meals
• Take atorvastatin after eating
• Consider using an antacid (consult your pharmacist)

If symptoms persist for more than a few days or worsen, contact your doctor.

Coping with Headaches

Headaches are a common initial side effect. To alleviate this:

• Rest and stay hydrated
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Use over-the-counter painkillers as recommended by your pharmacist

Should headaches persist beyond a week or become severe, consult your healthcare provider.

Muscle-Related Side Effects: A Closer Look at Atorvastatin’s Impact

Muscle pain, tenderness, and weakness are notable concerns for patients taking atorvastatin. These symptoms could indicate a rare but serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, which involves muscle breakdown and potential kidney damage.

Why does atorvastatin affect muscles? The medication works by inhibiting an enzyme involved in cholesterol production, which can also impact muscle cell function. While most patients tolerate the drug well, some may experience muscle-related side effects, particularly at higher doses like 80 mg.

If you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, or cramps, stop taking atorvastatin and seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or consider alternative treatments.

Reducing the Risk of Muscle Problems

To minimize the risk of muscle-related side effects:

• Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you’re taking
• Avoid grapefruit juice, which can interact with atorvastatin
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet
• Report any unusual muscle symptoms promptly

Liver Health and Atorvastatin: Monitoring and Precautions

Atorvastatin is processed by the liver, and in rare cases, it can affect liver function. Regular monitoring of liver enzymes is typically recommended, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose to 80 mg.

What are the signs of potential liver issues? Watch for:

• Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
• Pale stools
• Dark urine
• Unexplained fatigue

If you notice these symptoms, stop taking atorvastatin and seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may need to perform liver function tests and reevaluate your treatment plan.

Alcohol and Atorvastatin: A Cautionary Note

Consuming alcohol regularly while taking atorvastatin can increase the risk of side effects and liver problems. How much is too much? While moderate alcohol consumption may be acceptable for some patients, it’s crucial to discuss your alcohol intake with your healthcare provider.

Consider these guidelines:

• Limit alcohol consumption
• Avoid binge drinking
• Be aware of potential interactions between alcohol and atorvastatin

Gastrointestinal Effects: Managing Digestive Discomfort

Atorvastatin can cause various gastrointestinal side effects, including constipation, flatulence, and diarrhea. These symptoms can be uncomfortable but are usually manageable with lifestyle adjustments.

Dealing with Constipation and Flatulence

Experiencing digestive discomfort? Try these strategies:

• Increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Consider peppermint tea to alleviate gas

If symptoms persist, consult your pharmacist or doctor for additional recommendations.

Managing Diarrhea

Diarrhea can lead to dehydration if not properly managed. Here’s what you can do:

• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Eat small, frequent meals
• Consider probiotic supplements (consult your healthcare provider first)

If diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours or is severe, contact your doctor. For women taking oral contraceptives, severe diarrhea may affect the pill’s effectiveness, so additional precautions may be necessary.

Rare but Serious Side Effects: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While most side effects of atorvastatin are mild and manageable, some rare but serious reactions require immediate medical attention. Being aware of these potential issues can help you respond quickly if they occur.

When should you seek emergency care? Stop taking atorvastatin and contact emergency services if you experience:

• Signs of muscle breakdown and kidney damage (severe muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, or cramps)
• Indications of liver problems (yellowing of eyes or skin, pale stools, dark urine)
• Symptoms of erythema multiforme (skin rash with pink or red blotches, especially on palms or soles)
• Severe stomach pain (possible sign of acute pancreatitis)
• Persistent cough, shortness of breath, and weight loss (potential indicators of lung disease)

Recognizing and Responding to Allergic Reactions

Although rare, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to atorvastatin can occur. Seek immediate emergency care if you experience:

• Skin rash (itchy, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling)
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Tightness in the chest or throat
• Trouble speaking
• Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat

Prompt medical attention is crucial in cases of severe allergic reactions to ensure proper treatment and prevent complications.

Interactions and Precautions: Maximizing Atorvastatin’s Safety and Efficacy

Atorvastatin can interact with various medications, supplements, and foods, potentially affecting its efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. Understanding these interactions is crucial for patients taking the medication, especially at higher doses like 80 mg.

Medication Interactions

Which medications can interact with atorvastatin? Be cautious with:

• Other cholesterol-lowering drugs (e.g., fibrates)
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin)
• Antifungal medications (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole)
• HIV protease inhibitors
• Cyclosporine
• Warfarin and other blood thinners

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Food and Beverage Interactions

Certain foods and drinks can affect how atorvastatin works in your body. Key considerations include:

• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice (can increase the concentration of atorvastatin in your blood)
• Alcohol (can increase the risk of liver problems)
• High-fat meals (may reduce the absorption of atorvastatin)

Discuss your diet with your healthcare provider to ensure you’re not inadvertently affecting your treatment.

Long-Term Use of Atorvastatin: Balancing Benefits and Risks

Atorvastatin is often prescribed for long-term use to manage cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. While the medication is generally safe for extended use, it’s important to understand the potential long-term effects and how to monitor your health effectively.

Regular Monitoring and Check-ups

What should you expect during long-term atorvastatin use? Regular monitoring typically includes:

• Periodic blood tests to check cholesterol levels and liver function
• Assessment of muscle symptoms
• Evaluation of overall cardiovascular health
• Monitoring for potential drug interactions if new medications are introduced

Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate frequency of these check-ups based on your individual health profile and response to the medication.

Lifestyle Considerations

To maximize the benefits of atorvastatin and minimize risks during long-term use:

• Maintain a heart-healthy diet
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Manage stress effectively
• Avoid smoking
• Limit alcohol consumption

These lifestyle factors can complement the effects of atorvastatin and contribute to overall cardiovascular health.

Alternatives and Adjustments: Exploring Options When Side Effects Persist

If you’re experiencing persistent or severe side effects from atorvastatin, particularly at higher doses like 80 mg, it’s important to discuss alternatives and potential adjustments with your healthcare provider. There are several strategies that may help manage side effects while still addressing your cholesterol levels effectively.

Dose Adjustment

Can lowering the dose help reduce side effects? In many cases, yes. Your doctor may consider:

• Reducing the atorvastatin dose
• Switching to every-other-day dosing
• Combining a lower dose of atorvastatin with other cholesterol-lowering medications

These adjustments may help maintain the benefits of statin therapy while minimizing side effects.

Alternative Statins

If atorvastatin isn’t well-tolerated, your healthcare provider might suggest switching to a different statin. Options may include:

• Rosuvastatin
• Simvastatin
• Pravastatin
• Fluvastatin

Each statin has a unique profile of efficacy and potential side effects, so finding the right fit may require some trial and adjustment.

Non-Statin Alternatives

In some cases, non-statin medications or supplements may be considered, such as:

• Ezetimibe (blocks cholesterol absorption in the intestines)
• PCSK9 inhibitors (injectable medications that lower LDL cholesterol)
• Bile acid sequestrants
• Omega-3 fatty acid supplements

These alternatives may be used alone or in combination with a lower dose of atorvastatin, depending on your individual needs and risk factors.

Patient Education and Empowerment: Taking Control of Your Atorvastatin Treatment

Understanding your medication and actively participating in your treatment plan is crucial for managing atorvastatin therapy effectively, especially when taking higher doses like 80 mg. Empowered patients are better equipped to recognize side effects, adhere to treatment, and communicate effectively with their healthcare providers.

Importance of Medication Adherence

Why is consistent use of atorvastatin important? Regular adherence:

• Ensures optimal cholesterol management
• Reduces the risk of cardiovascular events
• Helps maintain steady drug levels in your body
• Allows for accurate assessment of the medication’s effectiveness

If you’re having trouble remembering to take your medication, consider using pill organizers, setting reminders, or linking the dose to a daily routine.

Communicating with Your Healthcare Provider

Open communication with your doctor is essential. Be prepared to discuss:

• Any side effects you’re experiencing, even if they seem minor
• Changes in your overall health or new symptoms
• Other medications or supplements you’re taking
• Lifestyle changes you’ve made or are considering
• Any concerns or questions about your treatment plan

Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification about your atorvastatin therapy. Your healthcare provider is there to support you and ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment.

Staying Informed

Keep yourself updated on atorvastatin and cholesterol management by:

• Reading reputable health information sources
• Attending patient education sessions if available
• Joining support groups for individuals managing cholesterol issues
• Discussing new research or treatment options with your healthcare provider

Being well-informed empowers you to make better decisions about your health and treatment.

Side effects of atorvastatin – NHS

Like all medicines, atorvastatin can cause side effects in some people, but not everybody gets them. Different statins affect people in different ways.

Some side effects may improve after the first few days, as your body gets used to the medicine.

Common side effects

These common side effects of atorvastatin happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Feeling sick (nausea) or indigestion

Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food. It might help to take your atorvastatin after a meal or snack.

If you continue to get symptoms of indigestion, ask your pharmacist to recommend an antacid. Contact your doctor if your symptoms continue for more than a few days or if they get worse.

Headaches

Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. It’s best not to drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller.

Headaches should usually go away after the first week of taking atorvastatin. Talk to your doctor if they last longer than a week or are severe.

Nosebleeds

If you get a nosebleed, sit down and lean forward, with your head tilted forward. Pinch your nose just above your nostrils for 10 to 15 minutes and breathe through your mouth. You could also try holding an icepack (or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel) on the top of your nose to help reduce the blood flow.

Sore throat

If you have a sore throat, try gargling with warm, salty water (children should not try this), or ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller to ease any pain or discomfort. Drink plenty of water, eat cool or soft foods, and avoid smoking or smoky places.

If the symptoms last longer than a week ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.

Cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, blocked nose or sneezing

Make sure you rest, keep yourself warm and drink plenty of fluids. Your pharmacist can recommend a suitable cold medicine and a decongestant spray or tablets to help relieve a blocked nose.

Constipation or farting (flatulence)

Try to eat smaller meals, eat more high-fibre foods such as fresh fruit, vegetables and cereals, and drink plenty of water. Drinking peppermint tea can be helpful for farting. Try to exercise more regularly, for example, by going for a daily walk or run.

If this does not help, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

Diarrhoea

Drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee. Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

If you take contraceptive pills and you have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

If this advice does not help and any of these side effects continue or bother you, keep taking the medicine, but tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Stop taking atorvastatin and contact 111 or call your doctor if:

• you get unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness or cramps – these can be signs of muscle breakdown and kidney damage
• the whites of your eyes turn yellow, or your skin turns yellow, although this may be less obvious on brown or black skin, or if you have pale poo and dark pee – these can be signs of liver problems
• you get a skin rash with pink or red blotches, especially on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet – this could be a sign of erythema multiforme
• you have severe stomach pain – this can be a sign of acute pancreatitis
• you have a cough, feel short of breath, and are losing weight – this can be a sign of lung disease

Go to 111. nhs.uk or call 111.

Drinking a lot of alcohol regularly increases the chance of you having side effects with atorvastatin, and liver problems.

If you think that atorvastatin is causing side effects and they’re making you want to stop taking it, talk to your doctor first. They may be caused by another problem and not the medicine. Your doctor may suggest lowering your dose or changing your medicine.

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to atorvastatin.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:

• you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
• you’re wheezing
• you get tightness in the chest or throat
• you have trouble breathing or talking
• your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling

You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

Other side effects

These are not all the side effects of atorvastatin. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

Page last reviewed: 7 March 2022

Next review due: 7 March 2025

Lipitor Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

Atorvastatin is used along with a proper diet to help lower “bad” cholesterol and fats (such as LDL, triglycerides) and raise “good” cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. It belongs to a group of drugs known as “statins.” It works by reducing the amount of cholesterol made by the liver. Lowering “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides and raising “good” cholesterol decreases the risk of heart disease and helps prevent strokes and heart attacks. In addition to eating a proper diet (such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet), other lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor for more details.

How to use Lipitor

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking atorvastatin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

If you also take certain other drugs to lower your cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take atorvastatin at least 1 hour before or at least 4 hours after taking these medications. These products can react with atorvastatin, preventing its full absorption.

Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol or triglycerides do not feel sick.

It is very important to continue to follow your doctor’s advice about diet and exercise. It may take up to 4 weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.

Side Effects

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very small number of people taking atorvastatin may have mild memory problems or confusion. If these rare effects occur, talk to your doctor.

Rarely, statins may cause or worsen diabetes. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks.

This drug may rarely cause muscle problems (which can rarely lead to very serious conditions called rhabdomyolysis and autoimmune myopathy). Tell your doctor right away if you develop any of these symptoms during treatment and if these symptoms last after your doctor stops this drug: muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness), signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).

This medication may rarely cause liver problems. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of liver problems, including: nausea/vomiting that doesn’t stop, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, stomach/abdominal pain.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking atorvastatin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, alcohol use.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Limit alcoholic beverages. Daily use of alcohol may increase your risk for liver problems, especially when combined with atorvastatin. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially muscle problems.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

See also How to Use section.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: daptomycin, gemfibrozil.

Other medications can affect the removal of atorvastatin from your body, which may affect how atorvastatin works. Examples include glecaprevir plus pibrentasvir, telithromycin, ritonavir, among others.

Do not take any red yeast rice products while you are taking atorvastatin because some red yeast rice products may also contain a statin called lovastatin. Taking atorvastatin and red yeast rice products together can increase your risk of serious muscle and liver problems.

Does Lipitor interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Do not share this medication with others.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood cholesterol/triglyceride levels, liver function) should be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Lipitor 80 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: ellipticalImprint: PD 158 80

This medicine is a white, elliptical, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “PD 158” and “80”.

Lipitor 20 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: ellipticalImprint: PD 156 20

This medicine is a white, elliptical, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “PD 158” and “80”.

Lipitor 10 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: ellipticalImprint: PD 155 10

This medicine is a white, elliptical, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “PD 158” and “80”.

Lipitor 40 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: ellipticalImprint: 40 PD 157

This medicine is a white, elliptical, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “PD 158” and “80”.

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Lipitor, 80 mg tablets, 30 pcs,

Composition

Atorvastatin, excipients.

Pharmacological action

Hypolipidemic.

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

Pharmacodynamics

The drug belongs to the group statins . It acts selectively and competitively with respect to the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase , converting coenzyme A into mevalonic acid , which belongs to the precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. In the liver cholesterol and TG are incorporated into VLDL, after which they enter the bloodstream and are transported to peripheral tissues. In the future, VLDL is transformed into LDL.

Lipitor significantly reduces the content of cholesterol and lipoproteins in the blood of patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia , not amenable to treatment with lipid-lowering drugs. The drug does not have a carcinogenic and mutagenic effect.

Pharmacokinetics

Lipitor is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, Cmax in the blood is reached after 2 hours. Relative bioavailability – 95%. Metabolized in the liver with the participation of CYP3A4 to pharmacologically active ortho / para-hydroxylated metabolites. Eliminated with bile.

Indications for use

• Primary hypercholesterolemia various types, mixed hyperlipidemia ;
• As a dietary supplement for homo/heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia ;
• In diseases of the cardiovascular system, accompanied by dyslipidemia ;
• To prevent myocardial infarction and reduce the risk of death.

Contraindications

High sensitivity to Lipitor, liver disease with severe dysfunction, pregnancy, lactation. Take with caution in patients with electrolyte imbalance, arterial hypotension , with acute infections, alcoholism, convulsive syndrome, surgical interventions.

Side effects

Nausea, dry mouth, abdominal pain, vomiting, emotional lability, insomnia, asthenia , dizziness, headache, drowsiness, malaise, peripheral neuropathy ataxia , paresthesia , hyperesthesia , hyperkinesis , depression, loss of consciousness, disturbance of accommodation, glaucoma, conjunctival dryness, tinnitus, loss of taste, postural hypotension, arrhythmia, increased blood pressure, vasodilatation , phlebitis , palpitations, migraine, anemia , thrombocytopenia , rhinitis, bronchitis, pancreatitis, anorexia , flatulence , leg muscle cramps, myalgia , bursitis, myositis, muscular hypertension, arthralgia , joint contractures, peripheral edema, impotence, vaginal bleeding, decreased libido , nephritis , epididymitis, increased sweating, eczema, alopecia, seborrhea, photosensitivity , hyperglycemia , albuminuria, weight gain.

Lipitor instructions for use (Method and dosage)

Lipitor tablets are taken orally, regardless of the meal time, at any time of the day. The initial dosage is 10 mg 1 time per day. The maximum daily dose is 80 mg. Treatment should be carried out against the background of compliance with the hypocholesterolemic diet .

Overdose

When taking the drug in high doses, liver dysfunction and development of rhabdomyolysis .

Interaction

The use of cytochrome CYP3A4 inhibitors leads to an increase in the concentration of the active substance in the blood. The risk of myopathy increases when administered with cyclosporine, erythromycin, fibrates , clarithromycin, antifungal azoles, nicotinamide. For example, the appointment of itraconazole entails an increase in the concentration of atorvastatin by 3 times, with erythromycin – by 40%.

With the simultaneous administration of digoxin, its concentration increases by 20%. The concentration of oral contraceptives also increases.

Antacids containing magnesium and aluminum reduce concentration, but this does not affect the reduction of cholesterol levels .

Conditions of sale

Prescription.

Storage conditions

Temperature up to 25°C.

Shelf life

2 years.

Brand:

Phizer

Brand:

GERMANY

Active ingredient ENG:

atorvastatin

Barcode: 9000 5

8699532095541

Video playback:

What helps, side effects, composition

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. A SPECIALIST’S CONSULTATION IS REQUIRED.For the heart and vessels statin: composition

According to the statistics tick of the World Health Organization, the first position in the list of ten leading causes of death are occupied by cardiovascular diseases. Few people know that one of the main factors in the development of heart and vascular diseases is an increase in the level of cholesterol in the blood. To avoid the risk of violations, a special group of drugs is used – statins. One of these drugs will be discussed in the article.

Anna Sumenkova, a pharmacist, will talk about Atorvastatin: introduce its composition, rules of administration, side effects, and compare it with analogues.

Atorvastatin: Composition

Atorvastatin tablets based on the active ingredient of the same name in dosages of 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg and 80 mg. The drug is produced by many manufacturers, as well as as part of complex preparations, so it is impossible to derive a single composition of auxiliary agents. The drug can be found under trade names:

• Atoris
• Vasator
• Liprimar
• Tulip

The pharmacist says: “Atorvastatin is usually prescribed by general practitioners and cardiologists as part of the complex treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, when they come to the pharmacy to buy prescribed drugs, people ask a logical question: what do Atorvastatin tablets help with.

Atorvastatin is a lipid-lowering agent. In other words, the drug reduces the content of “bad” cholesterol in the blood. Due to this, it is used to treat hypercholesterolemia and reduce the risk of complications of heart and vascular diseases. For example, atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.

Atorvastatin before or after meals

Atorvastatin tablets are taken by mouth regardless of food intake. It is important to note that before and during the use of the drug, it is recommended to follow a diet: minimize fat intake and completely abandon butter and palm oil.

If you ask about the compatibility of Atorvastatin and alcohol, then the answer will be ambiguous. The intake of alcoholic beverages is not contraindicated when using the drug. However, abuse of Atorvastatin is not recommended, as active liver disease and elevated liver enzymes are on the list of contraindications. Therefore, it is important to be careful when taking medication and alcohol-containing drinks together.

Atorvastatin: side effects

• Nasopharyngitis – inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity and pharynx
• Allergic reactions: urticaria, pruritus
• Increase or decrease in blood glucose
• Headache
• The appearance of a “veil” before the eyes
• Tinnitus
• Sore throat and epistaxis
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Nausea
• Inflammation of the liver
• Pain in muscles, joints and limbs
• Increased liver enzymes

Rosuvastatin or Atorvastatin: which is better

Rosuvastatin and Atorvastatin belong to the same group of medicines – statins, but to different generations. Atorvastatin is an earlier drug belonging to the third generation of drugs, while Rosuvastatin is the fourth – more modern. Therefore, the activity of Rosuvastatin against “bad” cholesterol is higher. So, Rosuvastatin is effective in doses from 5 mg to 40 mg, and Atorvastatin from 10 mg to 80 mg.

Rosuvastatin also causes fewer side effects. However, its cost is higher. Only a doctor can replace Atorvastatin with Rosuvastatin.

All products Rosuvastatin

20 reviews

Liprimar or Atorvastatin: which is better

Liprimar is an original American drug, the active ingredient of which is Atorvastatin. Other Atorvastatin preparations have been replicated based on Liprimar’s evidence base.

The drugs are similar: they have identical indications for use, dosages, contraindications, and are well tolerated by the body. Substituting one drug for another can be done at the pharmacy based on personal preference and affordability.

All products Liprimar

8 reviews

Atorvastatin or Atoris: which is better

Atoris is another drug with Atorvastatin as the active substance. Produced in Slovenia in dosages of 10 and 20 mg. The situation is similar with Liprimar: the drugs are similar in all therapeutic parameters.

Atoris disadvantage: no 40mg dosage, causing patients requiring higher dosages to take more tablets. For example, if you need the highest dose of 80 mg, you will have to drink 8 tablets of 10 mg or 4 tablets of 20 mg.

All products Atorvastatin

22 reviews

All products Atoris

20 reviews

Summary

• Atorvastatin – tablets based on the active substance of the same name in a dosage of 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg and 80 mg.
• Atorvastatin reduces the content of “bad” cholesterol in the blood.
• Atorvastatin tablets are taken by mouth with or without food.
• Rosuvastatin and Atorvastatin belong to the same group of drugs – statins, but they belong to different generations.
• The activity of Rosuvastatin against “bad” cholesterol is higher.
• Liprimar is an original American drug, the active ingredient of which is Atorvastatin.