ATORVA E 40 10'S

About

Atorvastatin is a potent HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, commonly known as a statin, widely used for the management of dyslipidemia and the prevention of cardiovascular disease. It works by competitively inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme critical for cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This inhibition leads to a reduction in intracellular cholesterol, which in turn upregulates LDL receptors on hepatocyte surfaces, increasing the clearance of LDL-C from the bloodstream. Atorvastatin effectively lowers total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides, while also modestly increasing HDL-C. Beyond its lipid-lowering effects, atorvastatin possesses pleiotropic properties, including anti-inflammatory and plaque-stabilizing effects, contributing to its significant role in primary and secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events.

Uses

• Reduction of elevated total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides.
• Increase of HDL-C in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia.
• Primary prevention of cardiovascular events in high-risk individuals.
• Secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with established disease.

Directions For Use

Take orally once daily, at any time of day, with or without food, as directed by your physician.

Benefits

• Significantly lowers "bad" cholesterol (LDL-C).
• Reduces risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Slows progression of atherosclerosis.
• Improves overall lipid profile.
• Possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
• Well-established efficacy and safety profile.

Side Effects

• Myalgia (muscle pain)
• Arthralgia (joint pain)
• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Insomnia
• Nasopharyngitis
• Elevated liver enzymes (transaminases)
• Rhabdomyolysis (rare, severe muscle breakdown)
• New-onset diabetes mellitus (small risk)
• Memory impairment (rare)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of liver damage and myopathy when taking atorvastatin. It is advisable to limit alcohol intake.
• Pregnancy - Atorvastatin is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the potential for fetal harm. Discontinue immediately if pregnancy is detected.
• Breastfeeding - Atorvastatin is contraindicated during breastfeeding as it may be excreted in breast milk and could cause serious adverse reactions in the infant.
• Liver - Atorvastatin is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases. Liver function tests should be monitored.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment. While dosage adjustments are not typically needed for mild-moderate impairment, close monitoring is advised.
• Lung - Atorvastatin does not have direct pulmonary effects. However, patients with pre-existing lung conditions should be monitored for any systemic effects that might indirectly impact their overall health.

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