What is Atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin is a synthetic lipid-lowering agent that belongs to the statin class of medications. It is one of the most prescribed medications globally for the management of dyslipidemia and the prevention of cardiovascular disease. The drug works by competitively inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in hepatic cholesterol biosynthesis.

Indications

Atorvastatin is indicated as an adjunct to diet for reduction of elevated total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, and triglycerides in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia and mixed dyslipidemia. It is also indicated for the prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with multiple risk factors for coronary heart disease.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose is 10-20 mg once daily. The dose range is 10-80 mg once daily. Dosage adjustments should be made at intervals of 4 weeks or more. The medication can be taken at any time of day, with or without food.

Side Effects

Common side effects include nasopharyngitis, arthralgia, diarrhea, pain in extremities, and urinary tract infection. Rare but serious side effects include rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown), hepatotoxicity, and new-onset diabetes mellitus. Patients should report unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness immediately.