Lipitor is used to decrease the content of cholesterol and fatty substances in the blood stream and is normally administered during changes of diet. The accumulation of cholesterol and fats along the artery walls (a process known as atherosclerosis) reduces blood flow. Oxygen supply to the heart, brain, and other parts of the body becomes restricted.
A decreased blood content of cholesterol and fats helps prevent heart disease, angina (chest pains), strokes, and heart attacks. Lipitor is administered orally in the form of a tablet. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. In order to avoid missing a dose, try to take Lipitor at a regular time every day. Initially a lower dosage of Lipitor may be prescribed by your doctor and then increased gradually. Even if your condition improves, do not discontinue the treatment with Lipitor. Do not terminate the therapy without consulting your doctor first. A low-cholesterol, low-fat diet should be adhered to during the treatment with Lipitor.
Warnings Precautions
If you have liver disease, do not take Lipitor without consulting your doctor first. Notify your doctor if you have a chronic muscular disease, require major surgery, or have a blood disorder. Dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment may be required if you have any of the above-listed conditions and in some cases the use of Lipitor might not be recommended at all. Lipitor is in the X FDA pregnancy category, meaning that it results in birth defects in the fetus. It is not clear whether Lipitor is passed onto breast milk. Do not take Lipitor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment and consult your doctor first if you are breast-feeding.
Missing a Dose
In case of missing a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule if it is almost time for your next dose. Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, do not take two doses at the same time.
Possible Side Effects
Few cases of Lipitor side effects have been reported. Notify your doctor if any of the following symptoms occur and persist: gas, stomach pain or cramps, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, headache, blurred vision, dizziness, rash or itching, upset stomach.
In case you experience muscle pain, tenderness, muscle cramps or weakness with or without a fever, contact your doctor immediately or seek medical pain.
Storage
Store Lipitor at room temperature. Do not expose to excess heat and moisture. Keep Lipitor in its original container. Dispose of the medication if it is beyond its expiry date or no longer used. Consult your pharmacist on the proper way to dispose of Lipitor. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
No symptoms of a Lipitor overdose have been detected. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.
More Information
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Lipitor, potentially causing harmful side effects. Both alcohol and Lipitor may damage the liver. During the treatment with Lipitor alcohol consumption should be limited. Consult your doctor on the possible risks of the simultaneous use of Lipitor and alcohol.
Lipitor resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lipitor
http://www.medicinenet.com/atorvastatin/article.htm
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a600045.html
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