Atorvastatin is a commonly prescribed statin medication used to lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Like all medicines, it can cause side effects, although many people take it without serious problems.
Common possible side effects
- Muscle aches or discomfort
- Some people experience muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. Mild muscle symptoms are relatively common and should be discussed with a healthcare professional if they persist.
- Digestive issues
- Possible symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, gas, or stomach discomfort.
- Headache
- Some people report headaches after starting treatment.
- Changes in blood sugar levels
- Statins may slightly increase blood glucose in some people, particularly those already at risk for diabetes. The cardiovascular benefits often outweigh this small risk for many patients.
Less common but important side effects
- Liver enzyme changes: Atorvastatin can affect liver tests, so clinicians may monitor liver function in certain situations.
- Serious muscle injury (rare): Severe muscle pain, weakness, swelling, or dark-colored urine can be signs of a rare condition called Rhabdomyolysis and require urgent medical attention.
- Severe allergic reactions (rare): Seek immediate help for symptoms such as facial swelling, trouble breathing, or widespread rash.
Things that may affect side effects
- Higher doses may increase the chance of muscle-related symptoms.
- Some medicines can interact with atorvastatin, including certain antibiotics, antifungal medicines, and other drugs.
- Large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice may interact with some statins, though the effect varies by medication and amount consumed.
Do not stop atorvastatin suddenly without talking with your prescriber, because stopping it may increase your cardiovascular risk. If you notice new or concerning symptoms after starting it, a healthcare professional can help determine whether they are related to the medicine or another cause.
