What is atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin is a prescription statin medication used to lower cholesterol, particularly LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. It works mainly by reducing cholesterol production in the liver and increasing the liver’s removal of LDL from the blood.
Why is it commonly prescribed?
Doctors may prescribe atorvastatin to:
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Lower high LDL cholesterol.
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Reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people who have cardiovascular disease or are at elevated risk.
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Treat certain inherited forms of high cholesterol.
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Reduce cardiovascular risk in some people with conditions such as diabetes.
Atorvastatin is generally taken once daily, with or without food. The dose depends on your cholesterol level, cardiovascular risk, other medications, and treatment goals.
Important things to know
Most people tolerate it well, but possible side effects include muscle aches and digestive symptoms. Unexplained severe muscle pain or weakness, especially with dark urine, requires prompt medical attention.
Atorvastatin can interact with certain medicines and with large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice, so it’s worth checking with a pharmacist before adding new medicines or supplements.
And don’t stop prescribed atorvastatin simply because your cholesterol has improved—the improvement may be the result of the medication.
If you tell me your atorvastatin dose (10, 20, 40, or 80 mg) and your latest LDL cholesterol, I can explain what the prescription generally means.
