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Lipitor
Uses:
Atorvastatin is used to lower cholesterol and fats in the blood to help
prevent heart attacks and strokes.
How to Take:
Lipitor may be taken with or without meals, usually once daily. It may
take a few weeks to months before the full effects of Lipitor are noticed.
Side Effects:
Overall Lipitor is generally well tolerated. Diarrhea or constipation
or stomach pain may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, inform
your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report: muscle pain/tenderness/weakness,
aches, fever. Very unlikely but report: yellowing of eyes or skin, vomiting,
vision problems, chest pain, black stools. In the unlikely event you have
an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms
of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble
breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your
doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions:
Before taking atorvastatin tell your doctor if you have: liver disease,
a severe infection, heart disease, thyroid problems, uncontrolled seizures,
recent major surgery, low blood pressure, any allergies, other medical
problems. If Lipitor makes you dizzy or lightheaded, use caution driving
or engaging in activities requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake as
this can damage the liver and cause increased side effects. Atorvastatin
should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you
may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Lipitor may be excreted
into breast milk. Because of the possible adverse effects to the infant,
breast-feeding is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter or prescription medication you
may take, including: clofibrate, cyclosporine, erythromycin, gemfibrozil,
niacin (nicotinic acid), azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole),
antacids (e.g., Maalox, Mylanta), digoxin, birth control pills, protease
inhibitors (e.g., indinavir). Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit
juice unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Do not start or stop
any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or
emergency room immediately.
Notes:
Your doctor may periodically perform lab tests during treatment to monitor
your progress. For best results, exercise regularly and follow a doctor-
approved, low-fat, low-cholesterol diet.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is
almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume
your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the doses.
Storage:
Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (between 20 and
25 degrees C) away from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other
healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the
use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before taking the product. |
