Atorvastatin: What Is It? What Is It Used For? Detailed Prospectus

Active Ingredient: Atorvastatin
Indications:
- Cholesterol Lowering: Atorvastatin is a statin medication used primarily to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, specifically low-density lipoprotein (LDL), commonly known as “bad” cholesterol.
- Heart Disease Prevention: It is commonly prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular conditions in individuals who are at high risk.
- Atherosclerosis: Helps in slowing the progression of atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup) and preventing complications like heart failure.
Dosage Instructions:
- Adults: The usual dose is 10-80 mg orally once a day, with or without food. The dose is adjusted depending on the cholesterol levels and the patient’s response to the medication.
- Children: Atorvastatin is not typically recommended for children under 10 years old unless prescribed by a doctor for specific conditions. For children aged 10-17, the dose may range from 10-20 mg daily.
- Special Instructions: Atorvastatin should be taken consistently at the same time each day. Regular cholesterol level monitoring is required during treatment.
Side Effects:
- Common: Muscle pain, weakness, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness.
- Severe: Liver problems (e.g., yellowing of the skin or eyes), severe muscle pain (rhabdomyolysis), unusual tiredness, and signs of kidney failure.
- If any severe symptoms occur, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Warnings:
- Liver Health: Atorvastatin can affect liver function. Liver enzyme tests should be performed regularly during treatment.
- Muscle Issues: Statins like Atorvastatin have been associated with muscle pain or damage. Report any unexplained muscle pain or tenderness to your doctor immediately.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it can harm the baby. Use effective contraception during treatment.
- Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake while using Atorvastatin, as it can increase the risk of liver damage.
Drug Interactions:
- Other Cholesterol Medications: Using with other statins or cholesterol-lowering medications may increase the risk of side effects.
- Antibiotics & Antifungals: Certain antibiotics and antifungals (like clarithromycin or ketoconazole) may interact with Atorvastatin and increase the risk of muscle problems.
- Grapefruit: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can increase the level of Atorvastatin in the blood, leading to potential side effects.
Storage Instructions:
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture, light, and heat.
- Keep out of reach of children and do not store in damp areas like bathrooms.
Expiration Date:
- Do not use after the expiration date on the packaging. Dispose of expired medication safely.