About atrovasta tin
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin)
Used for
- Lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
- Reduces risk of heart attack and stroke
Usual adult dose
Usually 10–80 mg once daily, adjusted to cholesterol response and treatment goal.
Usual dose in children
For familial high cholesterol, ages 10–17: usually 10 mg once daily; maximum 20 mg daily.
Common side effects
- Muscle aches or weakness
- Diarrhea or nausea
- Headache
- Raised liver enzymes
Important warnings
- Rarely causes serious muscle injury; unexplained muscle pain or weakness needs assessment.
- Liver problems can occur; clinicians may check liver tests.
- Avoid during pregnancy; stop if pregnancy occurs.
- Use caution with significant liver disease or heavy alcohol use.
Pregnancy
Avoid during pregnancy. Discontinue when pregnancy is recognized; treatment is rarely considered for exceptionally high-risk patients.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking atorvastatin.
Interactions
- Some antibiotics and antifungals can increase muscle-related side effects.
- Grapefruit may increase atorvastatin levels, especially in large amounts.
- Cyclosporine and certain HIV or hepatitis medicines can raise drug levels.
- Warfarin may require closer monitoring when atorvastatin is started or changed.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.