Lipitor To Lower Cholesterol
Lipitor (atorvastatin) belongs to the group of medicines called 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors. It works by blocking an enzyme that is needed by the body to make cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood.
Lipitor (atorvastatin) is a member of the drug class known as statins, used for lowering cholesterol. Atorvastatin inhibits the rate-determining enzyme located in hepatic tissue that produces mevalonate, a small molecule used in the synthesis of cholesterol and other mevalonate derivatives. This lowers the amount of cholesterol produced which in turn lowers the total amount of bad cholesterol (LDL).
With 2006 sales of US$12.9 billion, Lipitor (atorvastatin) is the largest selling drug in the world.
Lipitor Side Effects
The most common Lipitor side effects that may occur are headache, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, gas, or stomach upset/pain. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious Lipitor side effects occur: joint pain, muscle pain or weakness, fever, unusual tiredness, chest pain, swelling in the arms or legs, dizziness, yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine, change in the amount of urine, vision problems, black stool, severe stomach pain.
An allergic reaction to the drug Lipitor is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Lipitor Dosage
Take the Lipitor medication by mouth usually once daily with or without food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.
It may take up to 2 weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol or triglycerides do not feel sick.
Health Tips
Know Yourself and Your Risks. Your parents and ancestors help determine some of who you are. Your habits, work and home environments, and lifestyle also help to define your health and your risks. You may be at an increased risk for certain diseases or conditions because of what you do, where you work, and how you play. Being healthy means doing some homework, knowing yourself, and knowing what's best for you... because you are one of a kind. Read more Health Tips »
