Atorvastatin is a prescription medicine used to help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. It belongs to a group of medicines called statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors).
Why is atorvastatin commonly prescribed?
- To lower high cholesterol
- It reduces the liver’s production of cholesterol, especially LDL cholesterol.
- Lower LDL levels can help slow the buildup of fatty plaques in arteries.
- To reduce cardiovascular risk
- Doctors may prescribe it for people with a higher risk of heart disease, including those with diabetes, high blood pressure, a history of heart disease, or previous stroke.
- After certain heart or blood vessel events
- It is often used after a heart attack, some types of stroke, or procedures to open blocked arteries to help prevent future problems.
How is it usually taken?
- It is typically taken once daily, with or without food.
- The dose depends on cholesterol levels, overall health, and heart disease risk.
Possible side effects
Many people tolerate atorvastatin well, but possible side effects include:
- Muscle aches or weakness
- Headache
- Digestive symptoms (such as nausea or diarrhea)
- Mild increases in liver enzymes
Rarely, statins can cause a serious muscle problem called rhabdomyolysis, which can involve severe muscle pain, weakness, or dark-colored urine and requires urgent medical attention.
Important considerations
- Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines and supplements you take, because some can interact with atorvastatin.
- Avoid or limit grapefruit and grapefruit juice if your doctor advises it, as large amounts can affect how some people process the medication.
- Do not stop atorvastatin without discussing it with your healthcare professional, since stopping may increase cardiovascular risk for some people.
If you have been prescribed atorvastatin, your doctor may monitor your cholesterol levels and sometimes liver enzymes to check how well it is working and whether adjustments are needed.
