LIPITOR 40mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is LIPITOR 40mg

LIPITOR 40mg is a high-dose lipid-lowering agent that contains Atorvastatin, a potent HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin). It is used for managing severe hypercholesterolemia and reducing cardiovascular risk in patients with multiple risk factors. This dosage is typically prescribed for patients who do not respond adequately to lower doses of statins or who require aggressive cholesterol-lowering therapy due to high baseline LDL cholesterol or established cardiovascular disease.

• Drug Class: Statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors)
• Main Use: To lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes
• Target Patients: Those with familial hypercholesterolemia, previous cardiac events, or high atherosclerotic risk
• Mechanism: Inhibits cholesterol synthesis in the liver and enhances LDL clearance

How to use LIPITOR 40mg

Use LIPITOR 40mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

• Take one tablet once daily, with or without food
• Swallow the tablet whole with water—do not chew or crush
• It is best to take the tablet at the same time every day
• Maintain a cholesterol-lowering diet as recommended by your doctor
• Do not skip doses or stop the medication without medical advice

Mode of Action LIPITOR 40mg

Atorvastatin works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase in the liver, which is essential for cholesterol synthesis. By blocking this enzyme, the liver produces less cholesterol and increases the uptake of LDL cholesterol from the blood. This reduces circulating LDL levels and slows the progression of atherosclerosis.

• Inhibits cholesterol production enzyme (HMG-CoA reductase)
• Increases LDL receptor activity to remove LDL from circulation
• Reduces total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides
• Raises HDL (good cholesterol) moderately

LIPITOR 40mg Interactions LIPITOR 40mg

LIPITOR may interact with several drugs, which can increase the risk of adverse effects or alter its efficacy.

• Grapefruit juice: Can increase atorvastatin blood levels significantly
• Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin): May raise risk of muscle-related side effects
• HIV protease inhibitors: Strong interactions leading to increased atorvastatin exposure
• Cyclosporine: Increases the risk of rhabdomyolysis
• Warfarin: Atorvastatin can affect INR; monitoring is advised

Dosage of LIPITOR 40mg

• The recommended dose for severe dyslipidemia or high-risk patients is 40mg once daily
• May be increased to a maximum of 80mg/day under close medical supervision
• Liver function tests should be performed before starting treatment and periodically thereafter
• Adjustments are based on lipid profile and clinical response

Possible side effects of LIPITOR 40mg

• Common: Myalgia (muscle pain), diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue
• Less Common: Liver enzyme elevation, headache, or sleep disturbances
• Rare but Serious: Rhabdomyolysis, liver failure, allergic reactions, and severe muscle damage

LIPITOR 40mg Contraindications LIPITOR 40mg

• Known allergy to atorvastatin or any excipient of the formulation
• Active liver disease or persistent elevations in liver enzymes
• Pregnancy and lactation—statins are contraindicated due to teratogenic risk
• Use with caution in patients with a history of muscle disorders

Storage of LIPITOR 40mg

• Store at controlled room temperature (15°C to 30°C)
• Protect from moisture and light
• Keep in original blister until use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Discard any unused medication after the expiry date