Atorvastatin (Generic Name)
Other Names: Lipitor®

Dosage form

Oral tablets: 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg

About this drug

Atorvastatin (ah-TOR-vas-tat-in) is used to reduce cholesterol. It is known as an HMG-CoA
reductase (ree-DUCK-tayss) inhibitor. It is also called a “statin.”

Side effects

Common side effects are:

  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Gas

Rare side effects include:

  • Lower belly (abdominal) discomfort
  • Muscle pain
  • Muscle weakness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Muscle swelling or tenderness
  • Tea-colored urine
  • Joint pain

If any of these side effects become severe or bother you, call your doctor. Do not take over the-counter medicine for your symptoms.

When to call the doctor

It is especially important to call your doctor if you have:

  • Unexplained muscle pain
  • Weakness
  • Cramps
  • Tea-colored urine
  • Joint pain

Drug interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medicines or
herbal products that you are taking. He or she can check for drug interactions. You should avoid drinking grapefruit juice while on this medicine.

If you miss a dose

If you miss a medicine dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your
next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at its scheduled time, and continue your usual dosing schedule. Do not “double up” on doses to catch up.

Follow your diet

It is important to follow the diet your doctor prescribes for you while taking this medicine.

How to take this medicine

You may take it with or without food. Take this medicine the same time each day, preferably at bedtime.
Date: _________________________________
Name of drug: _________________________
Dosage: _______________________________
Frequency: ____________________________

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