LIPITOR 20mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is LIPITOR 20mg

LIPITOR 20mg is a prescription medicine that contains Atorvastatin, a member of the statin class of drugs. It is used to treat high levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides in the blood, while raising "good" cholesterol (HDL). By improving lipid levels, LIPITOR 20mg significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and the need for procedures like angioplasty in patients at high risk.

• Drug Class: HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin)
• Indication: Hypercholesterolemia, mixed dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular prevention
• Suitable For: Adults and adolescents with elevated cholesterol
• Dosage Form: Oral tablet, film-coated

How to use LIPITOR 20mg

Always take LIPITOR exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The medication is taken by mouth and may be taken with or without food.

• Take one tablet once daily, preferably at the same time each day
• Swallow the tablet whole with water—do not crush or chew
• Maintain a cholesterol-lowering diet and regular exercise program
• Continue therapy even if you feel well, as lipid lowering is preventive
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless close to the next dose

Mode of Action LIPITOR 20mg

Atorvastatin, the active ingredient in LIPITOR, works by blocking the action of HMG-CoA reductase—an enzyme responsible for the production of cholesterol in the liver. This results in a significant reduction in total cholesterol and LDL (bad cholesterol) levels, as well as an increase in HDL (good cholesterol). Lower cholesterol reduces the buildup of plaques in arteries, improving cardiovascular health.

• Reduces cholesterol synthesis in the liver
• Increases LDL receptor expression for greater LDL clearance
• Lowers LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides
• Raises HDL cholesterol moderately

LIPITOR 20mg Interactions LIPITOR 20mg

Certain medications and substances can affect the metabolism of atorvastatin or increase its side effects.

• Grapefruit juice: May increase atorvastatin levels in the blood
• Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin): Increased risk of muscle toxicity
• Azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole): Can raise blood levels of atorvastatin
• HIV protease inhibitors: May lead to elevated atorvastatin levels
• Cyclosporine and fibrates: Increase risk of muscle-related side effects

Dosage of LIPITOR 20mg

• Recommended dose is 20mg once daily
• Dosage may be adjusted based on treatment goals and lipid profile response
• Maximum dose: 80mg per day
• Liver function should be monitored before and during treatment
• Do not exceed the prescribed dose unless advised by a healthcare professional

Possible side effects of LIPITOR 20mg

• Common: Muscle aches, diarrhea, joint pain, and mild liver enzyme elevations
• Less Common: Headache, nausea, abdominal discomfort, fatigue
• Rare but Serious: Myopathy, rhabdomyolysis, liver damage, and hypersensitivity reactions

LIPITOR 20mg Contraindications LIPITOR 20mg

• Known allergy to atorvastatin or any component of the tablet
• Active liver disease or unexplained elevation in liver enzymes
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding—statins are contraindicated in pregnancy
• Severe hepatic dysfunction without specialist supervision

Storage of LIPITOR 20mg

• Store at room temperature (15°C to 30°C or 59°F to 86°F)
• Keep tablets in the original blister pack to protect from moisture and light
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use beyond the expiration date stated on the packaging