Atorvastatin

What is Atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin is a statin that lowers LDL cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.

How it works

It inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. Lower liver cholesterol increases LDL receptor activity, clearing LDL from the blood.

Common uses

• Primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease
• Treating high LDL or non-HDL cholesterol
• Managing inherited lipid disorders

Monitoring & Safety

• Labs: Track ldl, hdl, total-cholesterol, triglycerides, plus liver enzymes alt and ast when indicated.
• Muscle aches are uncommon; severe pain with dark urine needs urgent review.

Dosing (简要)

• Typical range 10-80 mg once daily; evening dosing is convenient but not required.
• Dose adjustments every 4-12 weeks based on lipid labs and goals.

Drug interactions

• Certain antibiotics/antifungals (clarithromycin, itraconazole) can raise statin levels.
• Grapefruit juice may modestly increase exposure; limit large amounts.
• Combined with fibrates, muscle side effects are slightly higher.

Patient tips

• Maintain lifestyle changes (diet, exercise) alongside the medication.
• Report unexplained muscle pain, weakness, or dark urine.
• Do not stop on your own; benefits build over months to years.

When to contact your doctor

• Severe muscle pain with fever or tea-colored urine.
• Persistent abdominal pain or yellowing of eyes/skin.
• Any allergic swelling or difficulty breathing.

Medical Disclaimer: 本内容仅供教育用途，不能替代专业医疗建议。