LIPITOR 80mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is LIPITOR 80mg

LIPITOR 80mg is a high-dose prescription medicine that contains Atorvastatin, a lipid-lowering agent classified as an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin). This dose is typically prescribed for patients at high or very high risk of cardiovascular events who require substantial reduction in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. It is also indicated for use in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or other atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD).

• Therapeutic Class: Statins
• Indications: Severe hypercholesterolemia, prevention of heart attack and stroke, secondary cardiovascular prevention
• Potency: One of the highest strengths available for Atorvastatin therapy
• Target: Achieves up to a 55–60% reduction in LDL-C levels

How to use LIPITOR 80mg

LIPITOR 80mg should be taken orally once a day, preferably at the same time each day.

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food
• Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet
• Follow a cholesterol-lowering diet plan as advised
• Continue regular physical activity and weight management practices

Mode of Action LIPITOR 80mg

Atorvastatin works by inhibiting the hepatic enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a key role in the biosynthesis of cholesterol. By blocking this enzyme, cholesterol production in the liver is reduced. Additionally, the liver increases its expression of LDL receptors, promoting greater clearance of LDL cholesterol from the blood. This dual action results in a significant reduction in LDL, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

• Inhibits HMG-CoA reductase → Decreases hepatic cholesterol synthesis
• Increases LDL receptor expression → Enhances LDL clearance
• Reduces LDL-C, non-HDL-C, ApoB, and triglycerides
• Modestly increases HDL cholesterol

LIPITOR 80mg Interactions LIPITOR 80mg

Caution should be exercised when LIPITOR 80mg is used with other medications due to potential drug interactions.

• Grapefruit Juice: Increases serum levels of atorvastatin, raising risk of toxicity
• Protease Inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir): May significantly raise atorvastatin levels
• Antifungal Agents (e.g., itraconazole): Can increase risk of muscle toxicity
• Cyclosporine: Contraindicated due to high risk of rhabdomyolysis
• Fibrates or Niacin: Combined use increases risk of myopathy

Dosage of LIPITOR 80mg

• Standard Dosage: One 80mg tablet once daily
• Initiation: In most cases, therapy begins at a lower dose (10–40mg), with titration to 80mg as needed
• Patients at Very High Cardiovascular Risk: May begin with 80mg directly, under specialist supervision
• Monitoring: Lipid profile, liver enzymes, and creatine kinase should be periodically checked

Possible side effects of LIPITOR 80mg

Like other statins, LIPITOR 80mg may cause side effects. Though most are mild, some can be serious.

• Common: Muscle pain, joint pain, fatigue, indigestion
• Less Common: Elevated liver enzymes, rash, insomnia
• Serious (Rare): Rhabdomyolysis, severe muscle breakdown, liver dysfunction, allergic reactions
• Report Immediately: Unexplained muscle pain, dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes

LIPITOR 80mg Contraindications LIPITOR 80mg

• Known hypersensitivity to atorvastatin or other statins
• Active liver disease or unexplained elevated hepatic transaminases
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding (statins may harm the fetus or infant)
• Concurrent use with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors without dose adjustment

Storage of LIPITOR 80mg

• Store at controlled room temperature (20°C–25°C / 68°F–77°F)
• Keep in original blister packs to protect from moisture
• Do not freeze or expose to direct sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiration date on the packaging