| Brand Name: |
Lipitor |
| Generic Name: |
Atorvastatin Calcium |
| Form: |
Tablets |
| Manufacturer: |
Pfizer |
*Please note: The product is manufactured in Turkey and is only available with Turkish language packaging.
What is Lipitor?
Lipitor should be used along with weight loss, a proper diet and exercise to reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks and other heart diseases. The active ingredient atorvastatin works by slowing the production of cholesterol produced by the liver and decrease the amount of cholesterol that may build up on the walls of the arteries and block blood flow to the brain, heart and other parts of the body. The medication is classified as a HMG CoA reductase inhibitor type of medication also known as statins.
How is Lipitor used?
Lipitor should be used orally as directed by a doctor, usually once daily. The tablets can be taken with or without food but should be taken along with some fluids. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage and length of treatment as it will depend on the patient’s condition and their response to the medication. For maximum benefits, the medication should be taken at around the same time every day. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor as high cholesterol usually has no visible signs.
Adverse effects
Lipitor may cause unwanted side effects such as:
- Confusion
- Joint pain
- Headaches
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Muscle pain
Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persists or encounter more severe side effects such as:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Signs of infection
- Blurred vision
- Unusual fatigue
- Mental or mood changes
- Dark urine
- Jaundice
Warnings
It is not recommended to consume grapefruits or grapefruit juice while using the medication as it may cause a potentially dangerous drug interaction.
Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.
Lipitor is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.
The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed. |
