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Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor / cholesterol-lowering)

Atorvastatin: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Lipitor, Atorlip, Sortis.

Ces informations sont fournies à titre indicatif uniquement et ne constituent pas un avis médical. Consultez toujours un professionnel de santé qualifié pour toute préoccupation médicale personnelle. En cas d'urgence, appelez votre numéro d'urgence local.

What it is used for

  • High cholesterol
  • Lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke
  • Heart and blood-vessel disease prevention in higher-risk people

How it works

Atorvastatin reduces how much cholesterol the liver makes by blocking a key enzyme. This lowers harmful LDL cholesterol in the blood and helps slow the build-up of fatty deposits in arteries, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

How it is taken

Taken by mouth as a tablet, usually once a day, and it can be taken at any time of day with or without food. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label, and continue a heart-healthy diet. Do not stop on your own, as cholesterol and risk usually rise again.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Muscle aches or mild muscle pain
  • Headache
  • Digestive upset such as nausea or constipation
  • Cold-like symptoms
  • Mild rise in blood sugar in some people

Serious effects — get help

  • Unexplained, severe, or widespread muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially with dark urine (seek urgent care)
  • Signs of liver problems such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe tiredness
  • Signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling or trouble breathing

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Grapefruit and grapefruit juice (may raise drug levels)
  • Some antibiotics and antifungal medicines
  • Certain HIV and hepatitis C medicines
  • Other cholesterol medicines such as fibrates
  • Some heart medicines such as amlodipine, diltiazem, and verapamil (dose limits may apply)
  • Alcohol in excess (liver strain)

Who should take care

  • Do not use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically advises
  • Tell your clinician about liver disease or heavy alcohol use
  • Report unexplained muscle pain or weakness promptly
  • Mention all other medicines, as several interact
  • Discuss any thyroid problems with your clinician

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to take statins at night?
Atorvastatin works well taken at any time of day, unlike some older statins. Pick a consistent time and follow your label.
What should I do about muscle aches?
Mild aches are common, but report severe, unexplained, or spreading muscle pain or weakness, especially with dark urine, as this needs urgent attention.
Can I eat grapefruit?
Grapefruit can raise atorvastatin levels and increase side effects. Ask your pharmacist about how much, if any, is safe for you.
Can I stop once my cholesterol is normal?
Usually not. The medicine keeps cholesterol controlled but does not cure it, and levels typically rise again if stopped. Discuss any change with your clinician.
Is Atorvastatin safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

Related conditions

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