Lipitor

Common Name: atorvastatin

How does Lipitor work?

Atorvastatin belongs to the family of medications known as cholesterol lowering drugs. It is used in addition to diet and exercise to treat people who have high cholesterol levels, including those people who have certain inherited cholesterol disorders. Atorvastatin works by blocking an enzyme that is needed to make cholesterol in the liver. Therefore, less cholesterol is made and the levels of cholesterol in the blood decrease. Reduction of cholesterol levels in the blood has been shown to reduce the risks associated with heart disease, such as heart attack. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Lipitor?

Before starting, or at the same time as starting atorvastatin, you should be placed on a cholesterol-lowering diet. If appropriate, your caregivers will discuss an individualized program of weight control and physical exercise with you. The recommended adult dose of atorvastatin ranges from 10 mg to 80 mg daily, preferably in the evening, with or without food. The medication usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks to have a significant effect on the cholesterol level in your blood. After this time, your doctor should send you for a lab test to check for changes in your cholesterol levels. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. For best results in lowering cholesterol, it is very important to closely follow the diet suggested by your doctor. It is also very important that atorvastatin be taken regularly, exactly as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Never double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Lipitor come in?

Lipitor® tablets are available in strengths of 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg. 10 mg: Each white, elliptical, film-coated tablet, with "10" on one side and "PD 155" on the other, contains atorvastatin 10 mg. 20 mg: Each white, elliptical, film-coated tablet, with "20" on one side and "PD 156" on the other, contains atorvastatin 20 mg. 40 mg: Each white, elliptical, film-coated tablet, with "40" on one side and "PD 157" on the other, contains atorvastatin 40 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium carbonate, candelilla wax, croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, simethicone emulsion, talc, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Lipitor?

This medication should not be used by anyone who: is allergic to any ingredient of the tablet has active liver disease or unexplained increases in liver function tests is pregnant is breast-feeding

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Lipitor?

Alcohol: Atorvastatin should be used with caution by anyone who drinks large quantities of alcohol. Kidney function: People with a history of reduced kidney function should take only low doses of this medication as prescribed by their doctor. Liver effects: Laboratory signs of harmful effects to the liver occur for a small percentage of adults who take atorvastatin for extended periods. When the medication is stopped, the laboratory tests usually slowly return to normal. It is important to have regular laboratory tests done. Check with your doctor. Liver disease: Atorvastatin should be used with caution by anyone who has a past history of liver disease. Muscle pain or weakness: Muscle pain and muscle cramps have infrequently been associated with the use of atorvastatin. Muscle weakness is infrequently reported with atorvastatin. You should report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness to your doctor as this could be a sign of an undesirable reaction to the medication. Pregnancy: Atorvastatin should not be taken by pregnant women. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking it immediately and call your doctor. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether atorvastatin is passes into breast milk. Women taking atorvastatin should not nurse. Children: There is limited experience with the use of this medication by children. Its safety and effectiveness have not been established for this age group.