What is Atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin is a medication used to lower cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. It belongs to a group of drugs called Statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors). By lowering cholesterol, it helps prevent heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
Composition
Active Ingredient: Atorvastatin Calcium
Available Strengths: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg (tablets)
Uses
Atorvastatin is mainly prescribed for:
High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia) – lowers “bad” LDL cholesterol
High Triglycerides (Hypertriglyceridemia)
Prevention of Heart Attack & Stroke
Heart disease management in patients with diabetes or hypertension
Familial Hypercholesterolemia (genetic cholesterol disorder)
How It Works
Atorvastatin blocks the enzyme (HMG-CoA reductase) that your liver needs to make cholesterol.
This leads to:
Decreased production of LDL (bad cholesterol)
Increased HDL (good cholesterol)
Reduced triglycerides
Lower risk of plaque formation in arteries
Dosage
Usual Adult Dose: 10 mg to 40 mg once daily
Maximum Dose: Up to 80 mg per day (as prescribed)
Timing: Usually taken once daily in the evening (with or without food)
Note: Cholesterol tests are done before and during treatment to adjust dose.
Side Effects
Common:
Mild muscle pain or weakness
Headache
Nausea or constipation
Fatigue
Serious (rare):
Severe muscle pain (Myopathy)
Liver enzyme elevation
Dark urine or yellowing of eyes/skin (jaundice — needs urgent check)