Atorvastatin blood lipid drug, important points of use and drug interactions

What is atorvastatin blood lipid medicine? Atorvastatin is one of the drugs effective in reducing the level of cholesterol and blood fat, which belongs to the group of statin drugs. By inhibiting the enzyme that plays a role in the production of cholesterol, this drug reduces the amount of unhealthy fats in the blood and prevents their accumulation in the arteries; Therefore, its consumption can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke, especially in people who are exposed to these diseases. Due to the importance of this topic, in this article from the medical website of Dr. Keihani Fard, we will introduce the blood fat drug atorvastatin, its important points of use, side effects and drug interactions. At first, getting to know blood fat disease; The most important reason for taking atorvastatin tablets Hyperlipidemia is a condition in which the amount of fats in the blood, such as cholesterol and triglycerides, increases. Although these fats are naturally necessary in the body for various functions such as building cells and producing hormones, too much of them can be dangerous and lead to serious health problems. In other words, the accumulation of fat in the blood causes it to settle in the vein and narrow or close the vein. This blockage or narrowing of the vessel reduces blood flow and increases the risk of stroke. To solve this problem, although regular exercise and eating healthy foods lower cholesterol levels, some people need medication to control their blood fat levels. Due to the importance of this situation, elderly people who have high blood fat and cannot control its level and experience symptoms such as dizziness (read the article on dangerous dizziness), it is better to consult a neurologist to manage their health conditions; Because these symptoms are important and can indicate an increased risk of stroke. Our suggestion is that people who experience these conditions can benefit from the successful experiences of Dr. Majid Kihani Fard, neurointrusion specialist, and receive the necessary guidance in this field. Scientific introduction of Atorvastatin Atorvastatin, known by the brand names Lipitor, Atorva and Sortis, is a type of cholesterol-lowering drug from the class of statins. By inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, this blood lipid drug reduces the level of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and fats (triglycerides) in the blood, while helping to increase the level of HDL (good cholesterol). In other words, atorvastatin lowers blood cholesterol levels by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver and increasing the breakdown of bad cholesterol. For this reason, atorvastatin is used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke. Along with that, lifestyle changes (such as healthy and low-fat diet, exercise and weight loss) should be done so that a person can have a better and healthier life. This medicine is only available with a doctor's prescription; In other words, the dosage and duration of treatment, which may vary according to the patient's condition, is determined only by the doctor. In the following, the pharmaceutical forms of atorvastatin (which is in the form of tablets and suspension) are given: - Oral tablets of 10 mg - 20 mg oral tablets - 40 mg oral tablets - 80 mg oral tablets - Oral suspension 20 mg/5 ml Atorvastatin dosage The dosage of this medicine is different for different patients and one should follow the doctor's instructions in this regard. Here are the different dosages of the drug: Atorvastatin drug interactions Although some drugs should never be taken at the same time, sometimes two drugs may be used together even if there is a possibility of interaction. In these cases, the doctor is the only one who can determine the safe dose of the drug and note the necessary precautions. Therefore, when taking atorvastatin, it is very important to discuss all the medications you are taking with your doctor. In the following section, we name some drugs that can interact with atorvastatin: Medicines used for HIV and hepatitis C. - Ketoconazole, itraconazole (Spuranx, Tolsura), posaconazole (Noxifil), or voriconazole (Vfend), which are used to treat fungal infections. - Macrolide antibiotics such as clarithromycin and erythromycin (Ery-Tab), which are used in the treatment of bacterial infections. - Colchicine, which is commonly used for gout. - Cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neural, Sandime) which suppresses the immune system. - Digoxin (Lanoxin) which is used to treat irregular heartbeat and some types of heart failure. - Niacin or fibrate such as Fibrozil Gem (Lopid), Phenofibrate (Tricor) or Phenofibric acid (Fibercon, Trilipix), which are drugs for high cholesterol. - Rifampin, which is commonly used to treat an infection called tuberculosis. - Contraceptive pills Does atorvastatin interact with food or drink? Avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice (1.2 liters or more) during the day while taking atorvastatin; Because large amounts of grapefruit juice can increase the risk of serious muscle problems. In addition, the risk of liver damage may increase if you drink significant amounts of alcohol. Common side effects of atorvastatin Any drug, along with its beneficial effects, may cause unwanted side effects that sometimes require medical attention. For this reason, in the following section, we have listed the most common side effects of atorvastatin; If any of these side effects bother you, be sure to inform your doctor as soon as possible: - Congestion or runny nose, sore throat - Pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones - Muscle spasm or pain - Joint pain - Headache - Diarrhea - Stomach upset - Pain in the arms and legs - Back pain or side pain - Urinary tract infection (UTI) - Painful or difficult urination - Indigestion - Hoarseness - Trouble sleeping - Arthralgia (pain in the joints) - Forgetfulness - Confusion ### Serious side effects of atorvastatin Although serious side effects of atorvastatin are less common, but to increase the awareness of consumers, we state them along with what to do if they occur: #### Muscle problems Atorvastatin can cause muscle problems, including pain, weakness, and muscle tenderness called myopathy. In some people, the muscles may even break down (rhabdomyolysis), which, although it can be serious, rarely leads to kidney damage and death. Therefore, if a person experiences any of the following symptoms related to myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, they should stop taking atorvastatin and discuss the situation with a specialist very quickly. - - - Unexplained muscle pain, weakness or tenderness Low energy levels or feeling tired quickly, especially during activity - Dark colored urine - Fever - Muscle cramps - Stomach pain - Nausea or vomiting #### Liver damage Liver damage, which is also called hepatotoxicity, may occur while taking the blood lipid drug atorvastatin; Therefore, if a person experiences any of the following symptoms that indicate liver damage, they should inform their doctor immediately. - - - Nausea or vomiting - Stomach or abdominal pain - Fever - itching - Unusual weakness or fatigue - Loss of appetite - Clear stools - Dark colored urine - Yellow skin or white eyes (also called jaundice) #### Severe allergic reactions Atorvastatin may cause allergic reactions, including a severe skin reaction called Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), which can be somewhat serious; Therefore, if any of the following symptoms that indicate a severe allergic reaction are seen in a person, the patient should stop taking atorvastatin and seek professional help very quickly. Breathing problems or wheezing - Fast heartbeat - Fever or general feeling of malaise - Swelling of lymph nodes - Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat - Difficulty in swallowing or throat tightness - Itching, rash, rash or pale red bumps on the skin called hives. - Painful and red or purple skin that looks like it is burning and peeling. - Blisters on the skin, mouth, nose and genital area - Red, painful and watery eyes - Nausea or vomiting - Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting - Abdominal cramps - Joint pain Who should not use atorvastatin? Atorvastatin, like any medicine, may not be suitable for some people. Therefore, before starting to take atorvastatin, it is very important to consult a doctor and review medical records in order to accurately assess the risks and benefits of treatment with this method. In the following section, we name the groups that should not use this medicine: - **People allergic to atorvastatin or other statins**: People who are allergic to atorvastatin or any of the components of this medicine should not use it; Because sensitivity can lead to severe allergic reactions such as hives, itching or swelling in different parts of the body. - **People with liver disease**: Those with liver problems such as hepatitis, cirrhosis or liver failure should not take atorvastatin; Because this medicine can put an extra burden on the liver and aggravate the condition of the disease. Therefore, often before starting the treatment, the doctor evaluates the function of the liver. - **Pregnant or lactating women**: The use of atorvastatin during pregnancy and breastfeeding is strictly prohibited; Because it can have negative effects on the fetus or baby. In fact, this drug increases the risk of birth defects and may even be excreted in breast milk. - **People with muscle disorders (such as myopathy)**: People who have myopathy or muscle problems should avoid taking atorvastatin; Because this drug can increase the risk of more serious muscle problems such as rhabdomyolysis (destruction of muscle tissue). - **People with untreated thyroid disorders**: People who have thyroid disorders (such as hypothyroidism) and have not been treated, should avoid taking this medicine. Therefore, since the lack of thyroid control can aggravate the side effects of the drug, it is necessary to treat thyroid disorders before starting atorvastatin. What should be told to the doctor before taking atorvastatin? When meeting with a specialist, a person must inform the doctor of all his health conditions and any medication he is taking. This information helps the doctor to determine the appropriateness of taking atorvastatin for him. In the following section, we have outlined the most important points that you should discuss with your doctor: - **Medical history:** If a person has unexplained muscle weakness or pain, kidney problems, liver problems, diabetes, a history of stroke, and thyroid problems, he should mention them in the meeting with the doctor. - **Other drugs and supplements:** Because atorvastatin may interact with other drugs and supplements, a person should inform the doctor of any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, minerals, herbal medicines and other supplements that he is taking. - **Pregnancy:** Atorvastatin may harm the fetus; Therefore, if a person is pregnant or plans to become pregnant, they should tell their doctor. Also, if a person becomes pregnant while taking the drug, it is necessary to stop taking atorvastatin and contact your doctor. - **Breastfeeding:** Although it is not yet clear whether atorvastatin is transferred to breast milk or not, it is better to stop taking atorvastatin while breastfeeding and inform your doctor about it. What should you know before using atorvastatin? Do not take atorvastatin unless prescribed by a doctor. Even if the people around you experience the same conditions as you, under no circumstances should you share your blood lipid medicine with them; Because this seemingly simple thing may harm them. Keep atorvastatin out of the reach of children. In addition, people aged 65 and older may be at greater risk for some of the side effects of atorvastatin, including muscle pain, weakness, and injury. Therefore, if you or your loved ones are in this age group, be sure to talk to a specialist to manage this condition. It goes without saying that atorvastatin oral suspension can be taken on an empty stomach 1 hour before meals or 2 hours after meals. For this purpose, it is suggested to use a precise measurement tool to determine the dose of oral suspension of atorvastatin; Because the homemade spoon is not an accurate measuring tool and may cause you to take the wrong dose. What should we do if we take more or less medicine? If someone has accidentally taken too much atorvastatin, they should call a doctor or emergency room right away. Overdose symptoms may include unexplained muscle pain, weakness, dark urine, or other unusual symptoms. In such a situation, the doctor may perform the necessary tests to check the patient's condition and, if necessary, consider the appropriate treatment. It should be noted that since excessive consumption of this drug can have serious side effects, it is necessary to act quickly in this situation. On the other hand, if a person has forgotten a dose of atorvastatin, he should take it as soon as he remembers. Of course, if the time of the next dose is close (or if more than 12 hours have passed since the last dose), you should not take the missed dose and take the next dose at the usual time. The important thing here is that you should never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. Of course, if forgetting doses happens frequently, it's wise to talk to your doctor about how to better remember when to take your medication. How should atorvastatin be stored? We said that the drug atorvastatin is available in two forms, tablets and liquid; In the following, we describe the correct way of maintaining them: - **Oral tablet:** Atorvastatin oral tablets should be stored at room temperature, between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. Of course, they can be kept at temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius for a short time (such as when moving). Finally, these tablets should be stored in a cool and dry place. - **Oral liquid:** Atorvastatin oral suspension should be kept at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. Although this form of medicine can be stored for a short time at temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius, it should be in a cool and dry place and of course in its original bottle. The important thing about atorvastatin suspension is that it should be used within the first 60 days after opening the bottle; After this time, you should throw away the rest of the medicine. Atorvastatin and reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke We know that atorvastatin is used to reduce blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Hence, by treating high blood fat, this drug helps to prevent problems such as chest pain, heart attack or stroke (which may be caused by the blockage of blood vessels by fats). Of course, along with taking this medicine, the doctor may change the person's diet to a healthy and low-fat diet; Therefore, to treat blood lipids using atorvastatin, a person must carefully follow all the doctor's instructions on how to take the drug, modify the diet, and exercise program.