Taking atorvastatin? 15 possible side effects to know
The phrase “hidden side effects your doctor may not tell you” is misleading. Atorvastatin is well studied and is commonly prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Most people tolerate it well.
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Possible side effects include:
Muscle aches or soreness
Muscle weakness
Muscle cramps or spasms
Joint pain
Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Indigestion or stomach discomfort
Constipation
Diarrhea
Gas/flatulence
Sleep problems
Tiredness or weakness
Increased blood glucose in some people
Liver-enzyme changes; memory problems or confusion have also been reported, although these are uncommon.
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🚨 Symptoms that need prompt attention
Severe or unexplained muscle pain or weakness, particularly with dark/brown urine, fever, or unusual tiredness, can indicate rare but serious muscle injury (rhabdomyolysis), which can damage the kidneys.
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Also seek medical advice for possible liver problems such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, loss of appetite, unusual weakness, or upper-abdominal pain. Serious liver injury is rare.
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Don’t stop atorvastatin on your own
If you think atorvastatin is causing symptoms, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They may investigate other causes, adjust the dose, or consider another statin. Stopping treatment without medical advice can allow cholesterol to rise and remove cardiovascular protection.
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Atorvastatin also has important interactions with some antibiotics, antifungals, antiviral medicines, heart medicines, and grapefruit juice.
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