ASTIN 40 10'S

About

Atorvastatin is a widely prescribed statin medication belonging to the class of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, primarily used to effectively lower elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. Its mechanism of action involves competitively inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, a rate-limiting enzyme in the liver responsible for cholesterol biosynthesis. This inhibition leads to a significant reduction in the production of LDL ("bad") cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, while often promoting a modest increase in HDL ("good") cholesterol. By comprehensively improving the lipid profile, Atorvastatin plays a crucial role in both primary and secondary prevention of major cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction, stroke, and coronary revascularization procedures, particularly in patients diagnosed with hyperlipidemia or those identified as being at high cardiovascular risk due to multiple risk factors, including diabetes and hypertension.

Uses

• Reduction of elevated total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides.
• Increase in HDL-C in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia.
• Prevention of cardiovascular events in high-risk patients.
• Treatment of mixed dyslipidemia.

Directions For Use

Take this medication orally, usually once daily, at any time of day, with or without food, as directed by your doctor.

Benefits

• Significant reduction in LDL ("bad") cholesterol.
• Lowered risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Improved overall lipid profile.
• Prevention of atherosclerosis progression.
• Well-established efficacy and safety profile.
• May be used for primary and secondary prevention of CVD.

Side Effects

• Muscle pain (myalgia)
• Joint pain (arthralgia)
• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Indigestion
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Increased liver enzymes (transaminases)
• Rhabdomyolysis (rare but serious muscle breakdown)
• Memory impairment (rare)
• Increased blood sugar levels

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Limit alcohol consumption as excessive intake can increase the risk of liver problems, which can be exacerbated by Atorvastatin.
• Pregnancy - Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the potential for fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception.
• Breastfeeding - Atorvastatin is contraindicated during breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the infant.
• Liver - Contraindicated in active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases. Liver function tests should be monitored regularly.
• Kidney - Generally safe for use in patients with kidney conditions, but caution is advised in severe impairment. No dosage adjustment is typically needed.
• Lung - Generally safe for use in patients with lung conditions. No specific precautions related to lung function are typically required.

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