Generic name: atorvastatin [ a-TOR-va-sta-tin ]
Brand name: Lipitor
Dosage form: oral tablet (10 mg; 20 mg; 40 mg; 80 mg)
Drug class:Statins
What is atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin belongs to a group of drugs called HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, or "statins."
Atorvastatin is used together with diet to lower blood levels of "bad" cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL), to increase levels of "good" cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL), and to lower triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood).
Atorvastatin is used to treat high cholesterol, and to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other heart complications in people with type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, or other risk factors.
Warnings
You should not take atorvastatin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease.
Stop taking this medication and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
Serious drug interactions can occur when certain medicines are used together with atorvastatin. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use now, and any medicine you start or stop using.
In rare cases, atorvastatin can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, potentially leading to kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, unusual tiredness, and dark colored urine.
Avoid eating foods that are high in fat or cholesterol. Atorvastatin will not be as effective in lowering your cholesterol if you do not follow a cholesterol-lowering diet plan.
Atorvastatin is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, med...
