Atorvastatin

Atorvastatin is a prescription drug available in the form of an oral tablet. Doctors prescribe Atorvastatin to lower cholesterol levels in individuals diagnosed with high cholesterol. Along with medication, your doctor may also suggest modifications to your diet and workout routine to manage cholesterol levels effectively.

This medication is also prescribed to reduce the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. It can be beneficial for individuals with existing heart disease or those who are at risk of developing heart-related conditions.

Atorvastatin is classified under a group of medications known as statins. Its mechanism of action involves slowing down the body's cholesterol production.

What are the uses of Atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin is commonly prescribed to lower "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and lipids in the bloodstream while increasing "good" cholesterol (HDL). This medication works by reducing the production of cholesterol by the liver. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, weight loss if needed, and quitting smoking can improve the effectiveness of Atorvastatin. A balanced diet, i.e. low in cholesterol and fat, is also crucial. It is advised to visit a doctor for further details on using Atorvastatin to manage cholesterol levels.

How and when to take Atorvastatin?

Take this medication orally. Consume it at the same time every day as instructed on the label. It can be taken either with or without food. Take it with meals if it makes you feel nauseous. Unless your doctor advises you otherwise, continue taking it. The dosage is determined by your medical history, treatment response, age, and any additional drugs you might be taking. It is important to ensure that your doctor and pharmacist know all the medicines you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications.

If you're taking this medicine, avoid eating grapefruit unless your doctor or pharmacist advises that it's okay. Grapefruit may increase the chances of side effects from this medicine.

What are the side effects of Atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin may cause side effects in some patients, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects impact more than 1 in 100 individuals and may improve within the first few days as the body adapts to the medication. The side effects of Atorvastatin include: 

• Nausea or indigestion
• Diarrhoea
• Headaches
• Sore throat
• Nosebleeds
• Symptoms of a cold, like a running or clogged nose or sneezing
• Constipation or flatulence 
• Allergic reactions (rare)

Atorvastatin users may experience slight disorientation or memory issues, which is rare. However, if you experience any unusual side effects, speak to your doctor.

What precautions need to be taken?

• If you have allergies before using Atorvastatin, inform your doctor or chemist. Inactive chemicals in this product can potentially cause allergic reactions or other issues.
• Inform your doctor or chemist about your medical history before using this medication, especially any instances of liver illness, renal disease, or alcohol use.
• Restrict your alcohol consumption. Your chance of developing liver issues may increase if you drink regularly, especially if you also take Atorvastatin.
• It can harm a developing fetus and must be avoided during pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding while using this medication is not advised due to the potential harm to the baby. Before breastfeeding, see your doctor.
• The adverse effects of this medication, particularly muscular issues, maybe more noticeable in older people.

What if I missed the dose of Atorvastatin?

If you have missed a dose of your medication, taking it as soon as you remember is crucial. But if your next dose is approaching, skip the missed one and stick to your usual dosing routine. Avoid taking two doses at once to compensate for the missed one. If it's been over 10-11 hours since your last dose, wait until the next scheduled dose. Stay cautious and follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

What if there is an overdose of Atorvastatin?

An overdose of Atorvastatin may cause the following symptoms: 

•   Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
•   Nausea
•   Diarrhoea
•   Confusion
•   Yellowing of skin or eyes
•   Dark coloured urine

If you believe you have consumed too many oral Atorvastatin pills, contact your doctor immediately.

What are the storage conditions for Atorvastatin?

• 
   The medicine must be stored in a secure container at room temperature, protected from heat, moisture, and strong light. 
•    Avoid freezing.
•    Keep it out of reach of children.
•    Medicine that is no longer needed or obsolete should be discarded.

Caution with other medicine

Let your doctor know if you're taking additional medications since some might increase your chance of developing severe muscular issues. Inform your doctor about ongoing medications and those you have begun or medications you are not taking any more. Never start or stop taking any medication or change the dosage without discussing it with your physician. Proper communication with your healthcare provider is essential to ensure you utilise the medication safely and effectively and minimise the risk of adverse reactions.

In case you are taking any of the following medications, let your doctor or chemist know:  

• Additional medications to reduce cholesterol
• Antibiotic or antifungal medicine
• Preventative medication for blood clots
• Contraceptive tablets
• Prescription drugs to avoid organ transplant rejection
• Medication for treating irregular heartbeats
• Hepatitis C or HIV medications.
• How quickly does Atorvastatin Show Results?

Atorvastatin has a quick effect, with 90% of the LDL cholesterol decreasing from baseline levels within the first two weeks of medication.

Atorvastatin vs Rosuvastatin

FAQs

1. Can children be prescribed atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin is typically not the first choice for children. It is primarily used in adults to lower cholesterol levels. However, in some cases, it may be prescribed to children with very high cholesterol levels or a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol. Such decisions are made by pediatric specialists based on the child's specific needs and after careful consideration.

2. Can atorvastatin result in injuries or difficulties with the muscles?

Yes, atorvastatin can lead to muscle-related issues. In rare cases, it can cause muscle pain, weakness, or, in very rare instances, muscle injury. If you experience unexplained muscle pain or weakness while taking atorvastatin, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

3. Which side effects of atorvastatin occur most frequently?

Common side effects of atorvastatin can include muscle aches, headache, stomach upset, and changes in liver function. However, not everyone will experience these side effects, and they may vary in severity.

4. Does taking atorvastatin increase my risk of developing diabetes?

Atorvastatin has been associated with a slightly increased risk of developing diabetes in some individuals. It's important to discuss this risk with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have other risk factors for diabetes, such as obesity or a family history of the condition.

5. Is Atorvastatin used to treat high cholesterol?

Yes, atorvastatin is commonly prescribed to lower high levels of cholesterol in the blood. It is part of a class of medications known as statins, which work to reduce the production of cholesterol by the liver and help manage cholesterol levels in the body.

References:

https://www.drugs.com/atorvastatin.html https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-841/atorvastatin-oral/details
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/atorvastatin/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19081-atorvastatin-tablets

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.