Atorvastatin is a prescription medicine. It is primarily used for the treatment of High Cholesterol. Other than this, Atorvastatin has some other therapeutic uses, which have been discussed ahead.
The right dosage of Atorvastatin depends on the age, gender, and medical history of the patient. Individual symptoms and route of administration also determines the right dosage. This information has been provided in detail in the dosage section.
The most common side effects of Atorvastatin are Headache, Nasopharyngitis, Diarrhoea. Apart from the aforementioned side effects, Atorvastatin can also lead to other problems, which have been listed below. These side effects of Atorvastatin are usually temporary and subside with the completion of treatment. However, if these continue for a longer time, consult your doctor right away.
It is also important to note that Atorvastatin has a Severe effect for pregnant women and Mild effect on lactating mothers. In addition, Atorvastatin's effects on the liver, heart and kidney are discussed below in the Atorvastatin related warnings section.
Atorvastatin is not recommended if you suffer from certain medical conditions as it can have adverse effects. Liver Disease, Alcoholism are examples of such conditions. The section on Atorvastatin contraindications lists all such conditions.
Besides this, Atorvastatin may also have severe interaction with some medicines. See below for a complete list.
You should also be aware that Atorvastatin is safe while driving, and is addiction.
Atorvastatin is used to treat the following -
Main Benefits
Other Benefits
This is the usual dosage recommended in most common treatment cases. Please remember that every patient and their case is different, so the dosage can be different based on the disease, route of administration, patient's age and medical history.
Find the right dosage based on disease and age
Age Group | Dosage |
Based on research, the following side effects have been observed when Atorvastatin is used -
Moderate
Mild
Common
Is the use of Atorvastatin safe for pregnant women?
Atorvastatin should not be taken during pregnancy, or should only be taken on the advice of a doctor as it may have severe side effects.
Is the use of Atorvastatin safe during breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding women can take Atorvastatin as it bears very minor side effects for them.
What is the effect of Atorvastatin on the Kidneys?
Atorvastatin can have moderate side effects on the kidney. If you notice any harmful effects, stop taking this drug right away. Consult your doctor before using this medicine again.
What is the effect of Atorvastatin on the Liver?
There may be an adverse effect on the liver after taking Atorvastatin. If you observe any side effects on your body then stop taking this drug. Take this medicine again only if your doctor advises you to do so.
What is the effect of Atorvastatin on the Heart?
Very few cases of side effects of Atorvastatin on the heart have been reported.
Atorvastatin should not be taken with following medicines due to severe side effects it may cause to patients -
Severe
Moderate
If you are suffering from any of the following diseases, you should not take Atorvastatin unless your doctor advises you to do so -
Is this Atorvastatin habit forming or addictive?
Atorvastatin does not cause addiction.
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?
Atorvastatin will not make you feel sleepy or drowsy. So you drive or operate machinery safely.
Is it safe?
Yes, but consume Atorvastatin only on doctor's advice.
Is it able to treat mental disorders?
No, the use of Atorvastatin in mental disorders is not effective.
Interaction between Food and Atorvastatin
Atorvastatin may take longer to act if you eat some foods while taking it. Follow your doctor's advice on this.
Interaction between Alcohol and Atorvastatin
Consuming Atorvastatin with alcohol can have many serious effects on your body.
Yes, Atorvastatin has been reported to cause diarrhea but this occurs in a few cases only. It is the most common side effect of this medicine. Drink plenty of fluids while you are taking this medicine. If you are experiencing severe diarrhea after taking this drug, consult your doctor immediately without any further delay.
No, Atorvastatin should not be discontinued without doctors advice. You are recommended to always consult a doctor before discontinuing this medicine.
It has been reported to cause weight gain but only in a few cases, this occurs very rarely. However, the exact cause behind this is unknown. if you notice any unusual weight gain after taking this drug. Then you are recommended to discuss it with your doctor.
No, Atorvastatin does not cause diabetes. It has not been reported to cause diabetes. However, Atorvastatin might increase your blood sugar levels slightly. So, if you have diabetes keep a check on your blood sugar levels and in case of a sudden spike inform your doctor and take medicines accordingly.
No, use of Atorvastatin does not cause memory loss in the patients who are taking it. It has not been reported to cause memory loss.
This medicine data has been created by -
B.Pharma, Pharmacy
5 Years of Experience