| 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 containing the active ingredient atorvastatin should be used along with a proper diet, weight loss and exercise to reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks and other heart diseases caused by high cholesterol. The tablets belong to a class of medication called HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (statins). It 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 that block blood flow to the brain, heart and other parts of the body.
How is Lipitor used?
Lipitor can be taken with or without food but should be taken with some fluids. It should be taken as directed by a doctor, usually once daily. Contact a doctor for the correct length of treatment and dosage as it will depend on the condition of the patient and their response to the therapy. To get the most out of the medication, it is recommended to take the tablet at around the same time each day. You may feel the benefits of the treatment after a few weeks but do not discontinue the medication without consulting a doctor as high cholesterol usually has no visible symptoms.
Adverse effects
Patients using Lipitor may encounter unwanted side effects such as:
- Muscle pain
- Confusion
- Diarrhea
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Constipation
Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or encounter more severe side effects such as:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Jaundice
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Dark urine
- Signs of infection
- Mental or mood changes
- Blurred vision
- Unusual fatigue
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. |
