15 things worth knowing about atorvastatin
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Muscle aches or soreness — One of the better-known potential effects. Tell your clinician about new or unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness.
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Muscle weakness or unusual fatigue — Particularly important when it is new, persistent, or accompanied by muscle pain.
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Rarely, severe muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis) — This can release muscle proteins that damage the kidneys. It is uncommon, but severe muscle symptoms, especially with dark urine, require prompt medical attention.
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Kidney problems secondary to muscle injury — Severe statin-associated muscle damage can lead to acute kidney injury.
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Changes in liver enzymes — Atorvastatin can cause elevations in liver enzymes. Actual serious liver injury is rare.
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Symptoms suggesting liver injury — Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, unusual bleeding or bruising, loss of appetite, or pain in the upper-right abdomen should be reported promptly.
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Diarrhea and digestive symptoms — Diarrhea, gas, heartburn, nausea, or stomach upset can occur.
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Joint pain — Joint pain is listed among reported adverse effects.
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Memory problems or forgetfulness — These have been reported. They should be discussed with your clinician rather than automatically assumed to be caused by atorvastatin.
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Confusion — Confusion has also been reported as an adverse effect.
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A small increase in blood sugar/diabetes risk — Statins can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, particularly in people who already have risk factors such as prediabetes, obesity, or metabolic syndrome.
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Drug interactions can increase muscle toxicity — Certain medicines can increase atorvastatin exposure and therefore increase the risk of muscle problems. Your prescriber/pharmacist should review your complete medication list.
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Grapefruit can matter — Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can affect how some statins are metabolized. Ask your pharmacist specifically about the amount that’s appropriate with your atorvastatin dose.
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Alcohol can increase concern about adverse effects — Particularly with heavier alcohol consumption or existing liver problems.
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Pregnancy and breastfeeding are important exceptions — Atorvastatin should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding; anyone who becomes pregnant while taking it should contact their clinician promptly
