Atorvastatin + Ezetimibe

Atorvastatin + Ezetimibe — Uses and Benefits

This combination medicine is mainly used to treat high cholesterol and to reduce the risk of heart disease in people who need stronger cholesterol control than a single medicine can provide.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Lowering high LDL (bad) cholesterol and total cholesterol
• Reducing triglyceride levels
• Increasing HDL (good) cholesterol
• Lowering risk of heart attack and stroke in people with high cholesterol or heart disease risk factors

HOW IT WORKS

• Atorvastatin blocks an enzyme in the liver that makes cholesterol
• Ezetimibe blocks absorption of cholesterol from food in the intestine
• Together they lower cholesterol more effectively than either alone

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for immediate relief of chest pain or heart attack
• Not a treatment for high blood pressure
• Not used for weight loss
• Not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise, though it works alongside them

How to Use Atorvastatin + Ezetimibe

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food, but be consistent each day
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Avoid grapefruit juice as it can affect how the medicine works
• Continue taking it 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 dose
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

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

Atorvastatin + Ezetimibe — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Muscle aches or joint pain
• Diarrhoea or stomach upset
• Nausea
• Fatigue

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Gas or bloating
• Dizziness
• Sleep disturbances
• Mild rash
• Changes in liver enzyme levels seen on blood tests

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially with fever or dark urine (possible muscle breakdown)
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, severe tiredness (possible liver problem)
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or severe rash
• Severe stomach pain (possible pancreas problem)
• Signs of gallbladder problem such as severe pain in upper right abdomen

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

Atorvastatin + Ezetimibe — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be taken only under a doctor's supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have active liver disease
• Are allergic to atorvastatin, ezetimibe, or any other ingredient in the tablet
• Are taking certain medicines that strongly interact with statins (check with your doctor)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of muscle problems
• Drink alcohol regularly
• Have thyroid problems
• Are planning pregnancy
• Are on multiple other medicines including herbal supplements

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines
• Other cholesterol-lowering medicines like fibrates
• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Ciclosporin and certain HIV or hepatitis medicines
• Some heart medicines

Always share a full list of your current medicines with your doctor or pharmacist.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

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

How long do I need to take this medicine?

Cholesterol medicines are usually needed long term, so continue as advised by your doctor even if you feel fine.

Will this medicine affect my blood sugar?

• Statins can slightly raise blood sugar in some people, so your doctor may monitor it if you have diabetes risk factors.
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