Lipitor: Uses, Side Effects, Storage and Precautions
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Kanchan M Bhambare, Cardiology
Lipitor (atorvastatin) tablet is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as statins or HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. It is commonly used to help lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL), raise good cholesterol (HDL), and reduce triglyceride levels in the blood. Lipitor is also prescribed to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular complications in specific individuals. It is considered adequate and is widely used in both adults and children over the age of 10.
Lipitor tablet is a lipid-lowering medication classified as a statin. It works by blocking an enzyme required by the body to produce cholesterol, thus lowering overall cholesterol levels. It is most often prescribed in cases of high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease risk, and metabolic syndromes.
Lipitor tablet is primarily used to manage high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It is also used to prevent heart-related events such as heart attacks and strokes in patients who have risk factors like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of heart disease.
Lipitor works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a central role in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By reducing cholesterol synthesis, the medication helps lower LDL and triglyceride levels and raise HDL levels. This improves overall heart health and reduces the risk of plaque buildup in arteries.
The typical dose of Lipitor is taken once daily, with or without food. Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on age, cholesterol levels, and response. Always follow medical advice carefully to ensure effective results and minimise side effects. Never change your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
If you forget to take a dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at your regular time. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose. Contact your healthcare provider if you're unsure about what to do.
In case of an overdose, immediate medical attention is required. Symptoms may include trouble breathing, extreme muscle weakness, or other serious effects. Never exceed the prescribed dose.
Symptoms of Overdose
Always consult your doctor before taking any medication. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help without delay.
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Get Second OpinionWhile the Lipitor tablet is effective in managing cholesterol, it may cause some unwanted effects in specific individuals. Understanding the potential side effects can help you identify when to seek medical advice and ensure safe use of the medication.
Seek immediate medical attention if any severe reactions occur or if side effects worsen.
Before starting Lipitor, it's essential to be aware of specific health conditions or risk factors that may require extra caution. These precautions help ensure the medicine is used safely and effectively based on your health profile.
Before taking Lipitor, inform your doctor if you:
Lipitor is approved for use in adults and children over the age of 10 under medical supervision.
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice as they can increase the level of Lipitor in your bloodstream and raise the risk of side effects.
Lipitor can interact with various medications, supplements, or substances, which may affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Understanding these interactions is crucial for preventing complications and achieving optimal treatment outcomes.
Lipitor may interact with several drugs, such as:
Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.
Store Lipitor at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Please keep it away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store it in the bathroom.
Exposure to heat, air, or moisture may degrade the medicine, making it less effective. Improper storage may also increase the risk of adverse effects.
Store in a secure, dry place out of reach of children. Do not use expired medication and properly discard it as instructed by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
| Lipitor | Crestor |
|---|---|
| Lipitor (atorvastatin) belongs to a class of medications known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors or statins. | Crestor (rosuvastatin) belongs to a class of medications known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, or "statins." |
| It is a medication used to treat high cholesterol and to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other heart complications in people who have type 2 diabetes. | Crestor is a medication used to lower cholesterol and triglycerides in adults and children over the age of eight. |
| It works by slowing the production of cholesterol in the body, reducing the amount of cholesterol that can build up on the artery walls and block blood flow to parts of the body. | Crestor works to lower cholesterol in two ways: it inhibits an enzyme in the liver, causing the liver to produce less cholesterol, and it increases the liver's uptake and breakdown of cholesterol already in the blood. |

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040-68334455It is a medication used to treat high cholesterol and to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other heart complications in people who have type 2 diabetes. Lipitor is for use in adults and children over the age of ten.
Lipitor's side effects include myopathy, a muscle disease, and rhabdomyolysis, a muscle breakdown that can lead to kidney damage and failure. When atorvastatin is combined with certain antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals, the risk of these complications increases.
While taking Lipitor, avoid high-fat and high-cholesterol foods. Large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice should also be avoided because they can increase the risk of serious side effects. Excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can lead to serious liver problems.
Statins, like many medications, can cause side effects such as digestive issues, muscle pain and weakness, and cognitive dysfunction. Weight gain is another side effect associated with statins.
Fat-soluble statins, such as Lipitor, Mevacor, Vytorin, and Zocor, have been found to be more likely to cause insomnia or nightmares because they can more easily penetrate cell membranes and cross the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from chemicals in the blood.
You will not experience any withdrawal symptoms. Stopping atorvastatin, however, may cause your cholesterol to rise, increasing your chances of having a heart attack or a stroke. If you want to stop taking your medication, you must find another way to reduce your cholesteroll.
Lipitor and other statin drugs block the antioxidant effects of vitamin E, which is found in multivitamins. Vitamin E can interfere with the health benefits of statins, so it is advisable to avoid taking them together.
Lipitor is the brand name for Atorvastatin. Both contain the same active ingredient and are used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
Inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as Atorvastatin can interact with certain drugs. Avoid heavy alcohol consumption and follow a low-cholesterol diet to enhance the medication's effectiveness.
Yes, but if you are taking other cholesterol-lowering medications (such as bile acid-binding resins like cholestyramine or colestipol), take Atorvastatin at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after these medications to avoid interactions.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.