Lipitor reduce cholesterol in the bloodstream

Lipitor belongs to a group of drugs called statins which are used to reduce cholesterol in the bloodstream. The active ingredient in Lipitor is atorvastatin calcium which is formulated as oral tablets.

Drug Uses

Lipitor is available by prescription only. Lipitor lowers the amount of LDL (lipoprotein) cholesterol in the blood which can reduce the risk of vascular disease, heart attack or stroke. Lipitor may also be prescribed to treat other medical conditions. Lipitor should be used in conjunction with a low-cholesterol diet.

Dosage

Always use Lipitor exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Lipitor may be taken in one dose. Lipitor does not have to be taken with food. For best results, take the dose at the same time every day.

ADULTS: The usual starting dose is 10 or 20mg a day. Patients with excessively high levels of cholesterol may require a starting dose of 40mg a day. Depending on the individual, daily doses of Lipitor may range between 10 and 80mg. After a few weeks of treatment, cholesterol levels should be checked in case the daily dose needs adjusting.

CHILDREN 10-17 YEARS OF AGE: The usual starting dose is 10mg a day. The maximum recommended dose for this age-group is 20mg a day. After a few weeks of treatment, cholesterol levels should be checked.

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, it can be taken as soon as you remember, as long as it does not clash with the next scheduled dose. In this case, rather skip the missed dose. Never take a double dose.

Precautions

Limit your intake of alcohol while using Lipitor as this medication has been known to cause liver damage.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using Lipitor. Discuss this in more detail with your doctor.

Lipitor should not be used by pregnant women. Women who are breast-feeding should discuss the risks of using this drug with their doctor.

Inform your doctor if you are allergic to any ingredient in Lipitor. Also ensure that your doctor has a full knowledge of your medical history, including any other medications you are using.

Patients who have any of the following conditions may require a lower dosage of Lipitor: an underactive thyroid, a history of liver or kidney disease, diabetes, or any muscle disorder.

Side-effects

Contact a doctor immediately if any of the following allergic symptoms occur: difficulty in breathing, hives, or swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following serious side-effects: low fever, flu symptoms, muscle pain, weakness, tenderness, nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, jaundice, dark urine or clay-colored stools.

Less serious side effects may include mild stomach pain, nausea, upset stomach, constipation, heartburn, gas, bloating, rhinitis, skins rash, itchiness or headache. These symptoms are usually temporary and should disappear quickly.

Lipitor may cause other side-effects. If you experience any other uncomfortable symptoms that persist, contact your doctor.

Overdose

An overdose of Lipitor is not likely to be life-threatening. However, excessive doses may cause serious symptoms. If overdose is suspected, call for emergency medical assistance.

Storage

Lipitor should be kept in a cool, dry place away from sun and moisture.