Atorvastatin

Overview

What is Atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to control high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. 
It comprises atorvastatin calcium, targeting the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme to disrupt cholesterol production. 

Global Name

Generic name: Atorvastatin 
Brand names: Lipitor, Atorlip, Lipistad 

Usage

What is Atorvastatin used for?

Atorvastatin is indicated for: 

• Reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol 
• Minimising the risk of heart attack and stroke 
• Potentially reversing the progression of coronary artery disease 

How do you use Atorvastatin?

Availability:

• Atorvastatin is available in tablet form 

Dosage information:

• Initial dose for adults: Often 10-20 mg daily; max 80 mg daily
• Pediatric dose (ages 10-17): Usually starts at 10 mg daily 

Suitability:

• Children: Approved for those 10+ with familial hypercholesterolemia 
• Adults: Broadly prescribed with considerations for individual health history 
• Elderlies: May require dose adjustments based on liver function and drug tolerance 

Who cannot take Atorvastatin?

• Children under 10

• Individuals with active liver disease

• Pregnant individuals (US FDA drug category X: known risk of fetal abnormalities in animals and humans, risks outweigh benefits)
• Nursing mothers 

Allergies and unsuitability:

• Avoid if you have a known allergy to atorvastatin or any inactive ingredients in the medication.  

Warnings and precautions:

• Take atorvastatin once daily, with or without food. Evening administration coincides with the body's peak cholesterol production. 

Interactions and contraindications:

• Atorvastatin can interact with grapefruit juice, certain antibiotics, and other lipid-lowering treatments. 

Side Effects

Common side effects include mild muscle pain, diarrhoea, and headache. Serious side effects are rare but can include liver dysfunction and myopathy. 

Pharmacist Tips

• Medication Schedule: Forgetting doses can compromise atorvastatin's efficacy. Consider setting reminders to maintain a consistent routine. 
• Lifestyle Integration: While atorvastatin helps reduce cholesterol, coupling it with a healthy diet, weight management, and regular physical activity can amplify benefits. 
• Drug Interactions: Always inform healthcare providers about your medications to prevent adverse interactions. 
• Regular Testing: Keep up with scheduled blood tests to monitor cholesterol levels and liver function, ensuring safe and effective atorvastatin therapy. 
• Side Effect Management: If you experience mild side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider before discontinuing use; they may offer strategies to manage these symptoms. 
• Storage and Handling: Store atorvastatin in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Ensure the bottle is tightly closed to preserve the medication's integrity. 
• Travel Considerations: Travel with your medication in its original labelled container, and carry a copy of your prescription for reference. 

Availability

Where is Atorvastatin available in Hong Kong?

 Atorvastatin is a prescription medication that can be prescribed by healthcare providers.

FAQs

Is Atorvastatin available over-the-counter? 

Can Atorvastatin cause muscle pain? 

When to take Atorvastatin? Morning or night?