Atorvastatin is a prescription medicine in the statin class. It is commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
It works by blocking an enzyme in the liver that the body uses to make cholesterol. This leads to:
- Lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
- A modest increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
- Lower triglyceride levels in many people.
Why is it prescribed?
Healthcare professionals commonly prescribe atorvastatin to people who:
- Have high LDL cholesterol.
- Have established heart or blood vessel disease.
- Have diabetes and are at increased cardiovascular risk.
- Have a high estimated risk of developing heart disease or stroke based on factors such as age, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and smoking status.
- Have inherited conditions that cause very high cholesterol.
How is it taken?
- Usually once a day, with or without food.
- It can be taken at any time of day, as long as it’s taken consistently.
- It works best alongside a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and not smoking.
Common side effects
Most people tolerate atorvastatin well. Possible side effects include:
- Muscle aches or tenderness.
- Joint pain.
- Headache.
- Mild digestive symptoms such as nausea or diarrhoea.
Rare but important side effects
Seek medical advice promptly if you develop:
- Severe muscle pain or weakness, especially with fever or dark-coloured urine.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), which could indicate a liver problem.
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Things to be aware of
- Some medicines can interact with atorvastatin, so your healthcare provider should know about all your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements.
- Large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice may increase atorvastatin levels in the body, depending on the dose and individual factors.
- Your healthcare provider may recommend periodic blood tests to monitor cholesterol levels and, in some cases, liver function.
Atorvastatin is one of the most widely prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications because it has strong evidence for reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events in people who are likely to benefit. It should only be taken under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
