What is atorvastatin (Lipitor) and how does it work?
Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a drug prescribed by a doctor to lower cholesterol in people diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia (high levels of cholesterol in the blood). Doctors diagnose high cholesterol with a simple blood test. Cholesterol (and triglycerides) are fats that your body produces. While some cholesterol is necessary for the body, too much cholesterol can be bad for your health. Specifically, cholesterol is produced in the liver. Lowering "bad" cholesterol and triglycerides and raising "good" cholesterol reduces the risk of heart disease and helps prevent strokes and heart attacks. This drug may also reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with diabetes.
Note: Some studies have suggested a possible association between statin use and the risk of diabetes, however, the risk of diabetes from statin use is very small.
Used with a proper diet, this medication can help people lower "bad" cholesterol and fats (such as LDL (low-density lipoprotein), triglycerides) and raise "good" cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. It belongs to a group of drugs called "statins." Statins (also HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) work like this drug by reducing the amount of cholesterol found in the blood.
Statins are safe medicines for most people. It is important to note that statins are not recommended for pregnant women or people with active or chronic liver disease. Additionally, statins can cause serious muscle problems. Some statins can negatively interact with other medicines, so it's important to let your doctor know about all the medicines you're taking. If you have problems (such as pain or other symptoms) with one specific prescription statin, using another statin may have fewer side effects. Your doctor may prescribe an alternative medicine to see if you feel better or notice a difference. Physicians often prescribe statins, such as Lipitor, because of their ability to lower cholesterol levels and the risk of cardiovascular events. Patients should strictly follow the instructions on the prescription label to ensure the effectiveness of the drug. Due to changes and updates, patients should read the health information that comes with this medicine each time it is filled.
In addition to following a proper diet for optimal health (such as a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet), people can make other lifestyle changes that may help this drug work better. These measures include exercising, losing weight and quitting smoking. For more details and medical information about this medicine and for medical advice about your health while taking this medicine, consult your doctor. This medication is only available by prescription.
