What It Is Used For
Atorvastatin is a statin. It lowers “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially in people with diabetes, heart disease or other risk factors.
How to Take It
Usually 10 mg to 20 mg once a day, at any time of day, with or without food. The doctor may use up to 80 mg. Keep taking it long term along with a healthy diet and exercise.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you are allergic to atorvastatin, have active liver disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take glecaprevir with pibrentasvir (hepatitis C medicine).
Side Effects
Common: muscle or joint aches, stomach upset, headache and changes in liver tests. Rarely it causes serious muscle damage: stop and see a doctor if you have unexplained muscle pain or weakness, especially with fever or dark urine. It can slightly raise blood sugar.
Precautions
Your doctor may check liver tests. Tell your doctor if you drink a lot of alcohol, have kidney or thyroid disease, or have had muscle problems with a statin before.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not take it during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Stop and see your doctor if you become pregnant.
Interactions
Clarithromycin, itraconazole, some HIV and hepatitis C medicines, ciclosporin, gemfibrozil and fusidic acid can raise the risk of muscle damage. Avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, out of the reach of children.