Brand Name:
Lipitor
Generic Name:
atorvastatin
FDA Drug Classification:
Antilipidemic (cholesterol reducer)
Action:
Reduces Cholesterol production in the liver by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase enzyme.
Adverse Effects:
- Rash , itchy skin, hair loss.
- Abdominal cramps, constipation, diarrhea, flatus, heartburn, - drink lots of water and follow a diet as recommended by your doctor
- liver dysfunction - follow up with your doctor as recommended for blood tests.
- Headache
- Impotence - discuss with your doctor.
- Skeletal muscle wasting - see your doctor immediately for any muscle weakness or pain.
Precautions:
Should not be used by:
- pregnant patients
- breastfeeding mothers
- patients with liver disease
- people with liver disease in past
- alcoholics
- patients with uncontrolled seizures
Possible Interactions:
Before taking Lipitor, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
- azole antifungal medications; cyclosporin; erythromycin; niacin; gemfibrozil; clofibrate
- digoxin;
- oral contraceptives; or
- blood thinner coumadin.
