Lipitor tablets 10 mg for hypercholesterolemia (atorvastatin, statin)

What are Lipitor tablets 10 mg for hypercholesterolemia (atorvastatin, statin)?

An active principle of Lipitor tablets is a form of atorvastatin, a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. It inhibits a specific enzyme, causing a decrease of low-density cholesterol ("bad") and an increase in high-density cholesterol ("good") cholesterol in blood level. Lipitor tablets reduce cholesterol levels in the liver and decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Lipitor tablets are effective for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and familial hypercholesterolemia. These tablets are recommended to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and the need for revascularization in patients with risk factors or a family history. Studies have shown that the correct dosage of atorvastatin can also reduce the risk of developing diabetes in patients with 2-4 risk factors.

Active principles: oratorvastatin calcium hydrohydrate

Amount: 100 tablets

Maker: Astellas Pharma Inc., Tokyo, Japan

Indications: hypercholesterolemia, familial hypercholesterolemia

How to take

For hypercholesterolemia: adults should  take 1 tablet at a time, once a day. In case of severe symptoms, your doctor may increase the dose up to 2 tablets a day.

For familial hypercholesterolemia: adults should take 1 tablet at a time, once a day. In case of severe symptoms, your doctor may increase the dose to up to 4 tablets a day.

Your doctor may adjust the dosage according to your age and symptoms.

Contraindications: do not use for the following categories of patients:

• patients with kidney disorders,
• patients with liver diseases,
• pregnant or possibly pregnant women,
• breastfeeding women. 

Important information

Avoid taking grapefruit juice while taking this medication. 

While undergoing the treatment, patients should receive regular tests for liver function, serum lipid level, renal function, agranulocytosis, pancytopenia, thrombocytopenia, hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus.

If an allergic reaction occurs, patient needs to stop using the medicine and consult with their doctor. If patient is taking any other medication or treatment, they should consult with their doctor in advance.