Atorvastatin
Uses of Atorvastatin
Atorvastatin is commonly used in the treatment of patients with high cholesterol levels, high triglycerides, high LDL levels, and low HDL good cholesterol levels.
How Atorvastatin Works
Atorvastatin is a dyslipidaemic agent. It inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, which is able to stimulate bad cholesterol breakdown, subsequently lowering bad cholesterol levels.
Side Effects of Atorvastatin
Tinnitus, Altered bowel movement, Nausea, Fatigue, Hyperglycaemia, Headache, Dizziness, Rash
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Atorvastatin is mainly excreted via urine and it also can increase the serum creatinine levels. Dose adjustment of Atorvastatin may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Atorvastatin. You may experience headache, dizziness, lightheadedness and nausea. Please consult your doctor for more details.
Pregnancy Not Safe - High Risk
Atorvastatin is unsafe to use during pregnancy. Human and animal studies have shown positive evidence of fetal risk. The risk of using Atorvastatin in pregnant women outweigh potential benefits.
Driving Generally Safe
Atorvastatin usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Use With Care
Atorvastatin is unlikely to be used in patients with liver disease. The use of Atorvastatin in patients with active liver disease is contraindicated. Please consult your doctor for more details.
Lactation Not Advisable
Atorvastatin is unsafe to use during lactation. Atorvastatin has relatively high molecular weight and suggesting that it is not excreted in the milk, but some excretion would be expected. Thus, women prescribed with Atorvastatin should not breastfeed due to potential adverse reactions of Atorvastatin in a nursing infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
