Name Trade Name Generic Name
Lipitor Atorvastatin
Use To decrease total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides and raise HDL.
Action Lipitor inhibits an enzyme needed to make cholesterol in the liver. It also facilitates the removal of LDL cholesterol from the blood.
Dose The dosing range is 10-80 mg, once daily, with or without food. The Doctor wants you to start at _______mg.
You should not take Lipitor if any of the following apply
*You have active liver disease or unexplained elevated liver enzymes
*Females who are pregnant, nursing, or likely to conceive.
*You take Erythromycin type antibiotics (eg. Ery-Tab, E-mycin, Biaxin).
*You take the immunosuppressant Cyclosporine (eg. Sandimmune or Neoral).
*You take azole-type antifungals (eg. Sporanox, Diflucan, Nizoral).
*You take the antidepressant Serzone.
*You should be cautious about taking Lipitor with Lopid (Gemfibrozil),
Tricor, or high doses of Niacin (Niaspan); however, combinations of these
medications may be ordered by the Lipid MD with careful monitoring.
Possible side effects
Lipitor is generally well tolerated; side effects usually have been mild and temporary. Call your doctor or our office if you have: GI problems, rash, fatigue, cold/flu symptoms, muscle aches, headaches, or dizziness. However, report muscle pain and brown urine to us immediately, particularly if accompanied by fever and/or weakness.
Lab tests In addition to a lipid profile, the blood tests AST and ALT will be done periodically to help assess liver function.
Special instructions
Do not drink grapefruit juice while taking this medication.
Always take the prescribed amount of medication.
Avoid substantial use of alcohol.
Have lab tests done promptly when ordered to avoid risks.
PRECAUTION
Women capable of childbearing must have a pregnancy test (serum HCG) before starting this medication. This is a category X drug and not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation.