Lipitor
Lipitor is used with diet changes (restriction of cholesterol and fat intake) to reduce the amount of cholesterol and certain fatty substances in your blood. Accumulation of cholesterol and fats along the walls of your arteries (a process known as atherosclerosis) decreases blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen supply to your heart, brain, and other parts of your body. Lowering your blood level of cholesterol and fats may help to prevent heart disease, angina (Chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks.
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Direction
Lipitor comes as a tablet to take it orally. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. To help you remember to take Lipitor, take it around the same time every day. Your doctor may start you on a low dose of Lipitor and gradually increase your dose. Continue to take Lipitor even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Lipitor without talking to your doctor. Eat a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet
Side Effect
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
• dark yellow or brown urine
• decreased urination, difficulty passing urine
• fever
• muscle pain, tenderness, cramps, or weakness
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• skin rash, itching
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• gas
• headache
• joint pain
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach upset or pain
• tiredness
Precaution
Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need to have regular tests to make sure your liver is working properly.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional as soon as you can if you get any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if you also have a fever and tiredness.
Atorvastatin is only part of a total cholesterol-lowering program. Your physician or dietician can suggest a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet that will reduce your risk of getting heart and blood vessel disease. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule.
Atorvastatin should not be used by females who are pregnant or breast-feeding. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child or to an infant. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.
If you are going to have surgery tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking atorvastatin.