About Atorvastatin
Atorvastatin, or atorvastatin calcium, is a prescription cholesterol-lowering drug. It is prescribed under the brand name Lipitor, which is made by Pfizer. Lipitor received FDA approval in 1996 and has been prescribed to more than 29 million people in the United States alone, according to Pfizer. It is taken orally once a day, and the dosage is based on how high a patient's cholesterol level is.
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How It Works
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Atorvastatin is classified as a statin. It works by blocking the action of an enzyme that produces cholesterol in the liver. This will help lower the level of LDL, or bad cholesterol, and raise the level of HDL, or good cholesterol. Other examples of drugs that are statins include Zocor, Prevachol, Mevacor and Lescol.
Uses
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Atorvastatin is prescribed mainly to people who have high cholesterol levels. It is also sometimes prescribed to treat people with angina or blood vessel blockage or to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in some people. When prescribed to lower cholesterol levels, doctors also will recommend a change in diet and exercise.
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Serious Side Effects
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Statins, including atorvastatin, have caused liver failure in very rare cases. Inform your doctor if you experience any of the following side effects, which may indicate liver damage: jaundice, extreme fatigue and dark urine. Other side effects of atorvastatin that may indicate a problem include bone, joint or tendon pain; signs of an infection including fever, chills or a sore throat; chest pain; muscle pain or weakness and tenderness; pale stools; red, blistered or peeling skin; or swelling in the feet, ankles and hands. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of these side effects.
Less Serious Side Effects
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Some people taking Atorvastatin may experience gas, constipation, mild stomach pain or upset stomach, heartburn, or headaches. None of these side effects is cause for concern.
Warnings
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Atorvastatin is not safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. People with certain medical conditions, including liver and kidney disease, also should not take atorvastatin. Using alcohol while taking atorvastatin increases your risk of liver damage as a result of the medication.
Drug Interactions
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Atorvastatin is known to interfere with the effectiveness of some drugs or increase the risk of side effects. The risk of muscle problems or kidney disease is increased when taking atorvastatin with several drugs, including amiodarone, antifungal medications, HIV protease inhibitors, verapamil, voriconazole and microlides. Drugs such as carbamazepine, rifampin, bosentan, efavirenz and St. John's wort decrease the effectiveness of atorvastatin.
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