Why is atorvastatin prescribed?
A healthcare professional may prescribe atorvastatin to:
- Lower LDL cholesterol
- Reduce triglycerides
- Modestly increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (“good” cholesterol)
- Treat high cholesterol caused by genetics or lifestyle factors
- Help prevent heart attack and stroke in people with existing cardiovascular disease or those at high risk
How does it work?
The liver produces cholesterol using an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase. Atorvastatin blocks this enzyme, causing the liver to make less cholesterol and remove more LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.
Common side effects
Many people take atorvastatin without significant problems. Possible side effects include:
- Muscle aches or soreness
- Joint pain
- Mild digestive symptoms (such as nausea, diarrhea, or constipation)
- Headache
Rare but important side effects
Seek medical advice promptly if you develop:
- Severe muscle pain, weakness, or dark-colored urine (which can indicate a rare but serious muscle injury)
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain (possible liver problems)
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing (seek emergency care)
Important considerations
- Continue taking atorvastatin as prescribed, even if you feel well, unless your healthcare professional advises otherwise.
- Lifestyle measures—such as a heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco, and managing blood pressure and diabetes—remain important alongside medication.
- Some medications can interact with atorvastatin, and large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice may increase the risk of side effects. Discuss your medications and diet with your healthcare professional or pharmacist.
Atorvastatin is one of the most extensively studied cholesterol-lowering medications and has been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in many people when used appropriately. If you have concerns about side effects or whether it is right for you, discuss them with the clinician who prescribed it rather than stopping the medication on your own.
