Price: 0.24 per pill
Contents
Common use
Lipitor, also known by its generic name atorvastatin, is a widely used cholesterol-lowering statin. It works by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver involved in cholesterol production.
This medication is effective for:
Reducing levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol
Increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol
Decreasing triglyceride concentrations
Lowering the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and related cardiovascular complications
Lipitor is especially beneficial for individuals with diabetes, heart disease, or multiple cardiovascular risk factors.
Dosage and direction
Atorvastatin is usually taken orally once per day, with or without food. Doses generally fall between 10 mg and 80 mg daily, depending on patient need.
Swallow the tablet whole, accompanied by a glass of water. Taking it at the same time each day helps maintain steady drug levels.
Your doctor will tailor the dosage based on blood test results and your individual risk profile. Do not modify or stop your treatment without medical guidance.
Precautions
Prior to starting Lipitor, inform your healthcare provider if you have or have had:
Active liver disorders
Regular alcohol consumption
Kidney disease
Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
Are nursing a baby (atorvastatin is not advised during breastfeeding)
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can elevate atorvastatin levels in the blood and raise the chance of side effects.
Contraindications
Do not take Lipitor if you:
Suffer from active liver disease
Are pregnant or currently breastfeeding
Have a known hypersensitivity to atorvastatin or other statins
Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment.
Possible side effects
Mild side effects may include:
Diarrhea
Joint stiffness
Light muscle pain
Indigestion or upset stomach
Rare but serious adverse reactions:
Severe muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis symptoms)
Liver complications (jaundice, persistent fatigue)
Hypersensitivity (rash, swelling, itching)
Contact your doctor promptly if you experience worsening symptoms or anything unusual.
Drug interactions
Atorvastatin can interact with several medications, such as:
Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin)
Azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole)
HIV protease inhibitors
Fibrates (another class of cholesterol-lowering agents)
Hormonal contraceptives
Make sure your physician is aware of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently using.
Missed dose
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you recall. If it's close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses at once.
Overdose
In the event of overdose, seek medical help immediately. Overdose symptoms might include profound fatigue, confusion, or extreme muscle weakness.
Storage
Store Lipitor in a dry, cool location at room temperature (68° - 77°F or 20° - 25°C). Avoid exposure to heat, moisture, and light. Keep the medication out of reach of pets and children.
U.S. Sale and Prescription Policy
Lipitor is classified as a prescription-only medication in the United States, with FDA approval for lipid management and cardiovascular protection.
Routine monitoring of cholesterol levels and liver enzymes is typically required. Patients must have an authorized prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Generic versions such as atorvastatin are widely available and usually included in insurance plans.
However, Frontier Family Pharmacy offers Lipitor without requiring a traditional prescription, based on a compliant internal pharmacist consultation. This policy allows eligible adults to obtain Lipitor directly after a health screening.
Disclaimer
This text is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional healthcare consultation. Always follow your doctor's advice before starting or changing medications. We do not accept responsibility for the misuse or misinterpretation of this information.