What Is Atorvastatin and Why Is It Commonly Prescribed?

Atorvastatin is a prescription medication in the statin class. It is one of the most commonly prescribed medicines worldwide because it helps lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

How does atorvastatin work?

Your liver makes cholesterol using an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase. Atorvastatin blocks this enzyme, which:

Lowers LDL (“bad”) cholesterol
Modestly raises HDL (“good”) cholesterol
Lowers triglycerides (a type of blood fat)

By reducing cholesterol in the bloodstream, it helps slow the buildup of plaque in arteries, improving blood flow and lowering cardiovascular risk.

Why is it prescribed?

A healthcare professional may prescribe atorvastatin to:

Treat high LDL cholesterol
Reduce the risk of heart attack
Reduce the risk of stroke
Help prevent cardiovascular disease in people with diabetes or multiple risk factors
Treat people with existing heart disease, such as those who have had a heart attack, angina, or certain procedures like stent placement

Who may benefit?

Atorvastatin is often prescribed for people who have:

High cholesterol
Diabetes
High blood pressure
A history of heart attack or stroke
A strong family history of cardiovascular disease
An estimated high risk of developing cardiovascular disease over the next 10 years

How is it taken?

Usually once daily, with or without food.
It can be taken in the morning or evening, but it’s best to take it at the same time each day.
Continue taking it unless your healthcare professional advises otherwise, even if you feel well.

Common side effects

Most people tolerate atorvastatin well. Possible side effects include:

Muscle aches or soreness
Mild joint pain
Headache
Upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation

These side effects are often mild and may improve over time.

Serious but uncommon side effects

Seek medical attention promptly if you develop:

Severe muscle pain or weakness, especially with dark-colored urine
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (possible liver problem)
Severe allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing

Interactions and precautions

Tell your healthcare professional about all medicines and supplements you take. Some drugs can increase the risk of side effects when taken with atorvastatin.

Also:

Avoid large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice, which can increase atorvastatin levels in the body.
Limit alcohol if advised, particularly if you have liver disease.