Atorvastatin is a statin medication that lowers cholesterol. It is one of the most commonly prescribed medicines because it helps reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.
Why is atorvastatin prescribed?
Healthcare professionals may prescribe atorvastatin to:
- Lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol
- Reduce triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood)
- Slightly increase HDL (“good”) cholesterol
- Reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people who have cardiovascular disease or are at high risk
It is often recommended for people with:
- High LDL cholesterol
- Diabetes with an elevated cardiovascular risk
- A history of heart attack, stroke, or certain blood vessel diseases
- A high estimated risk of cardiovascular disease based on age and other risk factors
How does it work?
Atorvastatin blocks an enzyme in the liver that’s needed to make cholesterol. As a result, the liver removes more LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, lowering blood cholesterol levels.
Common side effects
Most people tolerate atorvastatin well. Possible side effects include:
- Muscle aches or soreness
- Joint pain
- Mild digestive upset
- Headache
When to seek medical advice
Contact a healthcare professional promptly if you develop:
- Severe muscle pain, weakness, or dark-colored urine
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Severe allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing
Important points
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed.
- Lifestyle measures such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and not smoking remain important even if you’re taking atorvastatin.
- Don’t stop taking atorvastatin without discussing it with your healthcare professional, as stopping it may increase your cardiovascular risk.
If you’re taking atorvastatin and have questions about your dose, side effects, or possible interactions with other medications, I can help explain them.
