Atorvastatin – A Statin

Introduction

Atorvastatin, a genaric branded under the name of Lipitor, Lipiget, Lipirex is a statin drug used to treat abnormal cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease in people who are at high risk. Statins are a first-line medication for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. It is taken orally.

Class of Medicine
Atorvastatin is part of a class of drugs known as statins. If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood cholesterol, it’s used to lower it. It’s also used to prevent cardiovascular disease, such as heart attacks and strokes.

Mode of Action
The statin class of medications includes atorvastatin, which is a cholesterol-lowering treatment. Statins lower blood cholesterol levels by inhibiting 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase, an enzyme required for the liver’s cholesterol production.

How should this medicine be used?
Because atorvastatin does not cause stomach distress, it can be taken with or without food. With a glass of water, swallow atorvastatin pills whole. Completely swallow the tablet with a glass of water. It should not be broken, crushed, or chewed. This drug can be taken with or without food. When taking atorvastatin, avoid drinking a lot of alcohol.

Common Side Effects

Headaches, nausea, diarrhoea, and cold-like symptoms are the most prevalent adverse effects.

Clinical research have found that 1–10% of patients using atorvastatin experience the following side effects:
Joint discomfort
Stools that are too loose
Indigestion
Muscle ache
Nausea
Hyperglycemia Atherosclerosis has also been linked to a worsening of blood sugar control when taken in high doses.

If you’re pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, avoid taking atorvastatin. Even if you feel fine, keep taking atorvastatin since you will still reap the benefits.

Important Warning

While using atorvastatin, your risk of myopathy (muscle discomfort, soreness, or weakness) and rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) increases. If you’re a senior, have thyroid issues, or have kidney disease, your risk is higher.

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Lipitor
Lipiget
Lipirex