Atorvastatin 40mg

Atorvastatin 40mg — Uses and Benefits

Atorvastatin 40mg is mainly used to treat high cholesterol and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Lowering high LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides
• Raising HDL (good) cholesterol
• Reducing risk of heart attack, stroke and other heart problems in people with diabetes, heart disease or other risk factors
• Preventing further heart problems in people who have already had a heart attack or stroke

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase in the liver
• This reduces the liver's production of cholesterol
• Helps clear cholesterol already present in the blood
• Over time, lowers fatty deposits in blood vessel walls

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller and does not treat chest pain immediately
• Not used to treat infections
• Not a substitute for a healthy diet, exercise or weight control
• Not meant for immediate emergency treatment of a heart attack or stroke

How to Use Atorvastatin 40mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Try to take it at the same time each day for best results
• Continue taking it even if you feel well, as cholesterol control needs regular use
• Do not stop without talking to your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, set a reminder or speak to your pharmacist

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink
• Discard expired or unused medicine safely, do not flush down the drain

Atorvastatin 40mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Mild headache
• Joint pain
• Muscle aches
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Diarrhoea or constipation

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Sleep disturbances
• Skin rash
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Mild memory or concentration issues

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, especially with fever or dark-coloured urine
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine or severe fatigue (signs of liver problems)
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, throat or difficulty breathing
• Severe stomach pain that may spread to the back (signs of pancreas problems)
• Unusual tiredness or weakness with signs of low blood sugar

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

Atorvastatin 40mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to atorvastatin or any of its ingredients
• Have active liver disease or unexplained persistently high liver enzymes
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Are breastfeeding

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of liver disease
• Have kidney problems
• Drink alcohol regularly
• Have a history of muscle disorders
• Have diabetes or thyroid problems
• Are on multiple other medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines
• Other cholesterol-lowering medicines like fibrates
• Medicines for HIV or hepatitis C
• Ciclosporin and other immune-suppressing medicines
• Grapefruit juice in large amounts

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

Regular or heavy alcohol use can increase the risk of liver problems, so it is best to limit alcohol and discuss with your doctor.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

Most people need to take it long-term to control cholesterol; your doctor will decide based on your response and blood tests.

Will I need blood tests while on this medicine?

• Yes, your doctor may check your cholesterol levels and liver function periodically to monitor treatment.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.