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Drug
Uses
Lipitor is used for those who have abnormally high cholesterol
levels. When taken together with a low-fat diet, this
medicine can effectively reduce LDL cholesterol, commonly
referred to as the “bad” cholesterol, triglyceride levels,
and total cholesterol, while increasing the HDL, or
“good” cholesterol.
General
Information
The statins have also been shown to result in possible
depletion of Coenzyme Q-10, leading some prescribers
to recommend Co Q-10 as a supplement with Atorvastatin
calcium. Coenzyme Q-10 can be found in most drug stores.
How
Drug Works
The statins work by blocking an enzyme in the liver
that is used by your body to make cholesterol. The result
is lower levels of circulating cholesterol and reduced
risk of hardening of the arteries and plaque accumulation
in blood vessel walls.
How
Taken
This medicine is taken orally. Follow your doctor's
directions. The tablet may be crushed or split. Better
if taken on an empty stomach and before bedtime, since
cholesterol is made in your body at a faster rate between
midnight and 5 a.m. Generally the full-effect will take
2 to 4 weeks, as long as you continue to take the medication
as prescribed on a daily basis.
Possible
Side Effects
Your doctor may also wish to conduct routine blood tests
to check your liver function before and after starting
treatment with this medicine. Myalgia (muscle pain)
constipation gas, indigestion abdominal pain You should
notify your doctor if you experience unexplained muscle
pain, tenderness or weakness.
Warnings/Precautions
Your doctor may also wish to conduct routine blood tests
to check your liver function before and after starting
treatment with this medicine.
Overdose
For emergencies, seek medical attention immediately.
For non emergencies, contact your local or regional
poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
Drug
Interactions
Possible drug interactions include certain other cholesterol-lowering
drugs, some antibiotics, and certain antifungal medications.
Ask your pharmacist if you are taking these drugs together.
Missed
Dose
Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is
time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go
back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage
Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat
and moisture (not in the bathroom). Keep this medication
in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out
of reach of children. Throw away any medication that
is outdated or no longer needed.
Pregnancy/Nursing
If you suspect that you may be pregnant, talk to your
doctor. This medicine should not be used during pregnancy.
For nursing mothers, it is unknown whether atorvastatin
calcium is excreted in the breast milk. It is advised
not to breast-feed while taking this medication.
More
Information
For more information, talk to your doctor, pharmacist
or health care provider.
Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes
only, it is not intended that this information covers
all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions,
or adverse effects of your medication. This is only
general information, and should not be relied on for
any purpose, it should not be construed as containing
specific instructions for any particular patient.
epsdrugstore.com disclaims all responsibility
for the accuracy of, and reliability of this information,
and or any consequences arising from the use of this
information, including damage or adverse consequences
to persons or property, however such damages or consequences
arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is
made in regards to the contents of this material.
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