Lipitor

Brand Name:Lipitor

Prescription needed: Yes

What is this drug used for?

Atorvastatin is used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. This drug is usually prescribed when lifestyle changes such as treatment with exercise, weight loss, and a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats have not reduced cholesterol levels to target levels. They can be an important part of reducing your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

It is important to disclose your medical history, including any pre-existing conditions.  Tell your doctor if you:

• are allergic to atorvastatin
• have liver disease
• have reduced kidney function
• are pregnant or breast-feeding

What about possible side effects?

Tell your doctor of any and all side effects that you experience while taking this drug, including:
 
• gas or bloating
• stomach pain
• constipation
• upset stomach
• diarrhea
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• dizziness
• sore throat
• weakness

Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of these more serious side effects:

• muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
• lack of energy or fever
• jaundice
• rash

This drug may cause other side effects. Your doctor may monitor liver function with a simple blood test when you start this medication. Call your doctor if you have any unusual symptoms while taking this medicine.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Always provide your doctor with a list of all other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications) as they may interact with another drug, increasing or decreasing its effectiveness and safety. In the case of this medicine, tell your doctor specifically if you are taking:

• antacids
• azole antifungal medications
• birth control pills
• cholestyramine
• cimetidine
• clarithromycin
• colestipol
• cyclosporine
• digoxin
• erythromycin
• fibric acid derivatives
• grapefruit juice
• macrolide antibiotics
• nefazodone
• niacin
• protease inhibitors
• terfenadine
• verapamil

Other information:

Children. Safety and effectiveness in children have not been established. 

Seniors can take atorvastatin.

Pregnancy. Pregnant women should not take this drug. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking it immediately and call your doctor.

Women who are nursing should not take this drug. It is not known whether atorvastatin can be passed on through breast milk.
 
People who drive or operate machinery should not do so until they know the impact this medicine has on them personally.

Alcohol: Always drink in moderation.

Overdose: Call 911 immediately if you seriously exceed the recommended dosage and/or experience any other unusual reaction.

Stopping the drug: Talk to your doctor before stopping.

If you miss a dose: 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 schedule. Do not double dose.

Storage conditions: closed container; cool, dry location away from excess moisture (not in the bathroom); always out of reach of children.

Dietary precautions: Eat a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet. Talk to your doctor about drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medication.