Lipitor (Atorvastatin) belongs to the
group of medicines called 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA)
reductase inhibitors. It works by blocking an enzyme that is needed by the
body to make cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol in the
blood.Uses
Atorvastatin is used, along with a
cholesterol-lowering diet, to help lower cholesterol and fats
(triglycerides) in the blood. Reducing cholesterol and triglycerides helps
prevent strokes and heart attacks.
How to take
Take this medication by mouth
usually once daily with or without food; or as directed by your doctor. The
dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It may
take up to 2 weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. It is
important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most
people with high cholesterol or triglycerides do not feel sick.
Side effects
Headache, nausea, diarrhea,
constipation, gas, or stomach upset/pain may occur. If any of these effects
persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately
if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: joint pain, muscle
pain or weakness, fever, unusual tiredness, chest pain, swelling in the arms
or legs, dizziness. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly
unlikely but very serious side effects occur: yellowing eyes and skin, dark
urine, change in the amount of urine, vision problems, black stool, severe
stomach pain. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek
immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction
include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
Precaution
This medication is not recommended
for use if you have the following medical conditions: liver problems. Tell
your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart disease, eye problems
(e.g., cataracts), thyroid problems, uncontrolled seizures, recent serious
infection, recent major surgery, low blood pressure, alcohol use, any
allergies (especially to other "statin" drugs). Daily use of alcohol may
increase your chance for serious side effects. Limit alcoholic beverages.
Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be
more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication must not be used
during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant,
inform your doctor immediately. It is recommended that women of
child-bearing age use effective birth control measures while taking this
drug since atorvastatin may cause fetal harm. This drug passes into breast
milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your
doctor before breast- feeding.
Drug interactions
This drug is not recommended for
use with: mibefradil, azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole).
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor of all
prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially:
cyclosporine, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin,
troleandomycin), fibrates (e.g., gemfibrozil, clofibrate), niacin (nicotinic
acid), antacids, digoxin, birth control pills, nefazodone, protease
inhibitors (e.g., indinavir, ritonavir), rifamycins (e.g., rifampin). Do not
eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while using this medication unless
your doctor instructs you otherwise. Do not start or stop any medicine
without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon
as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed
dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Storage
Store at room temperature between
56 and 86 degrees F (13 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. |
