Lipitor

Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) is used alongside a low fat diet, to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides (fats) in the blood, while at the same time increasing the level of good cholesterol (HDL). HDL can help to prevent clogging of the arteries. Treatment with this drug can help to lessen the risk of heart attacks, stroke and chest pain in certain patients, such as those with low HDL levels, those who smoke, patients with heart disease, diabetic patients, patients with high blood pressure, as well as those with other risk factors.

A medical consultation is required prior to beginning treatment with Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium), so that your physician can prescribe the most suitable dose for you. Adults taking this medicine for hyperlipidemia may be started out on an initial dose of either 10mg, 20mg or 40mg, taken once per day. If a 45 per cent reduction in LDL is required, the patient may be told to start out at 40mg per day. Adjustments may be made at the discretion of the prescribing physician, usually at 2 to 4 week intervals, and the maintenance dose is usually 10mg to 80mg per day. Other dosage regimens may be prescribed to patients preventing cardiovascular disease, or who are treating conditions which have not been listed here.

Taking Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) tablets may sometimes result in side effects, such as:

• Nosebleeds
• Cold symptoms
• Feeling confused
• Pain affecting the joints
• Problems related to memory function

It is recommended that you discuss any side effects which occur with your physician. Remember that in some cases, serious side effects may occur. You must immediately seek medical attention if you notice discolored urine, appetite loss, bruising or bleeding, weight gain, urination problems or any other symptoms which indicate that you are suffering from a severe reaction.

Although rare, there is a possibility that this drug can cause liver problems. It may be necessary for your physician to conduct blood tests, before and during treatment, so as to monitor your liver function.

Do not eat grapefruit, and avoid drinking grapefruit juice during the course of treatment, as it may increase the amount of medicine present in your blood, which could result in an increased risk of side effects.