Atorvastatin (30mg)

Atorvastatin (30mg) — Uses and Benefits

Atorvastatin 30mg is used mainly to treat high cholesterol and to reduce the risk of heart-related problems.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Lowering high LDL (bad) cholesterol and total cholesterol
• Lowering high triglyceride levels
• Raising HDL (good) cholesterol in some patients
• Reducing risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular events in high-risk patients
• Use in patients with diabetes or family history of heart disease as advised by doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase that the liver uses to make cholesterol
• Reduces the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver
• Helps the body remove cholesterol already present in the blood
• Helps stabilise fatty deposits in blood vessels, lowering risk of blockage

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller and does not treat muscle or joint pain
• Not used for immediate relief of chest pain or heart attack
• Not a treatment for infections
• Not a substitute for diet, exercise, or other lifestyle changes advised by your doctor

How to Use Atorvastatin (30mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food, at the same time each day
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Avoid grapefruit juice as it may increase side effects
• Continue taking even if you feel well, as cholesterol control needs regular use
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, inform your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Keep in original packaging until ready to use

Atorvastatin (30mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Nausea or indigestion
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Joint pain
• Mild muscle aches

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Sleep disturbances
• Dizziness
• Skin rash or itching
• Sore throat or nasal congestion
• Blurred vision

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe muscle pain, tenderness or weakness (possible sign of muscle breakdown)
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (possible liver problem)
• Unexplained fatigue or fever with muscle pain
• Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Signs of high blood sugar such as increased thirst or urination

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Atorvastatin (30mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be taken only under the supervision of a registered doctor.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have active liver disease or unexplained persistent high liver enzymes
• Are allergic to atorvastatin or any other statin

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of muscle problems or myopathy
• Drink alcohol regularly
• Have diabetes or thyroid problems
• Are taking any other cholesterol-lowering medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines
• Medicines for HIV or hepatitis C
• Other cholesterol-lowering drugs like fibrates
• Ciclosporin and other immune-suppressing medicines
• Warfarin and other blood thinners
• Always inform your doctor of all medicines and supplements you take

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it can increase the risk of liver problems.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

Usually it is a long-term treatment; your doctor will decide the duration based on your cholesterol levels and heart risk.

Will this medicine interfere with my other regular medicines?

• It can interact with certain antibiotics, antifungals, and other drugs, so always tell your doctor about all medicines you take.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.