Why is Lipitor prescribed?

Lipitor (Atorvastatin) is used together with diet to lower blood levels of "bad" cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL), to increase levels of "good" cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL), and to lower triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood). Lipitor belongs to a group of drugs called HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, or "statins." Lipitor is used to treat high cholesterol, and to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other heart complications in people with type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, or other risk factors such as genetically high cholesterol. Lipitor is for use in adults and children who are at least 10 years old. Atorvastatin (Generic) is also available in addition to the Brand name Lipitor.

What is the most effective way to take Lipitor?

Take Lipitor exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

• Lipitor is usually taken once a day, with or without food. Take the medicine at the same time each day.
• Do not break a Lipitor tablet before taking it.
• You may need to stop using this medicine for a short time if you have: uncontrolled seizures; an electrolyte imbalance (such as high or low potassium levels in your blood); severely low blood pressure; a severe infection or illness; or surgery or a medical emergency.
• It may take up to 2 weeks before your cholesterol levels improve, and you may need frequent blood tests. Even if you have no symptoms, tests can help your doctor determine if Lipitor is effective.

Lipitor is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.

Before taking Atorvastatin, know that:

• Daily use of alcohol may increase your risk for liver problems, especially when combined with atorvastatin. Limit alcoholic beverages. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially muscle problems.
• This medication must not be used during pregnancy. Atorvastatin may harm an unborn baby. Therefore, it is important to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control (such as birth control pills) while taking this medication.
• If you become or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away.
• It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Before taking Atorvastatin,

• tell your doctor if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
• tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, and alcohol use
• Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Common Lipitor side effects may include but are not limited to:

• joint pain
• stuffy nose or sore throat
• diarrhea
• pain in your arms or legs

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• pain or burning when you urinate
• signs of liver problems - including upper stomach pain, weakness, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes 
• signs of kidney problems - including little or no urinating, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath 

Get emergency medical help:

• If you have signs of an allergic reaction to Lipitor: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• If you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have a fever, unusual tiredness, and dark-colored urine. In rare cases, Lipitor can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. 

Q: Why is Lipitor prescribed?

A: Lipitor is used to treat high cholesterol, and to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other heart complications in many kinds of patients

Q: Does Lipitor have a generic alternative?

A: Yes, Atorvastatin (Generic) is available for purchase.

Q: How long until I see the results of Lipitor?

A: It may take up to 2 weeks before your cholesterol levels improve

Q: What if I miss a dose of Lipitor?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is less than 12 hours until your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Q: How should I store this medication?

A: Lipitor should be stored at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.