Atorvastatin
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).
Introduction
Generic name: Atorvastatin
Brand name: Lipitor
Dosage form: oral tablet (10 mg; 20 mg; 40 mg; 80 mg)
Drug class: Statins
Uses
High cholesterol
Prevention of Heart attack
Benefits
In High cholesterol
Aztor 10 Tablet belongs to a group of medicines called statins. It works by reducing the amount of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and raising the amount of “good” cholesterol (HDL) in your blood. Lowering the amount of cholesterol reduces the chances of heart diseases and helps you remain healthier for longer. Take it regularly and make appropriate lifestyle changes (such as eating healthy and staying active) to maximize the effectiveness of this medicine. Keep taking it even if you feel well.
In Prevention of Heart attack
High levels of cholesterol can cause your blood vessels to narrow (atherosclerosis) and put you at risk of having a stroke or heart disease. Lowering the amount of this fat reduces the chances of this happening and helps you remain healthier for longer. Keep taking this medicine even if you feel well
Directions for use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Aztor 10 Tablet may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
How it works?
Aztor 10 Tablet is a lipid-lowering medication (statin). It works by blocking an enzyme (HMG-CoA-reductase) that is required in the body to make cholesterol. It thus lowers “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, raising the level of “good” cholesterol (HDL).
Side effects
Atorvastatin may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have
Muscle weakness in your hips, shoulders, neck, and back trouble lifting your arms, trouble climbing or standing
Liver problems - upper stomach pain, weakness, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Kidney problems - little or no urinating, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath.
Common side effects of atorvastatin may include:
- Joint paiN
- Stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Diarrhea
- Pain in your arms or legs.
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, medication, and exercise routines very closely.