Lipitor

Lipitor: an effective cholesterol-lowering drug

Lipitor, also known by its international name Atorvastatin, is a lipid-lowering drug used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. This drug, produced in Germany by the Goedecke/Parke-Davies companies, belongs to the pharmacological group of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

Lipitor is available in film-coated tablets in various strengths: 10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg. Its active ingredient is Atorvastatin. The drug has a wide spectrum of action and is used to treat various conditions associated with high cholesterol levels.

The main indications for the use of Lipitor include primary hypercholesterolemia, combined (mixed) hyperlipidemia, and hetero- and homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia as an adjunct to diet. The drug helps control blood cholesterol levels, preventing the development of cardiovascular diseases.

Contraindications to the use of Lipitor must be taken into account. These are hypersensitivity to the drug, liver disease in the acute phase, an increase in the level of serum transaminases by more than 3 times, pregnancy, breastfeeding and reproductive age in women (reliable contraception is required during treatment).

Lipitor may have side effects such as nausea, dyspepsia, flatulence, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, headache, insomnia, asthenia and myalgia. Interactions with other drugs should also be considered when prescribing Lipitor. For example, it increases the steady-state plasma concentration of digoxin and the levels of norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol during oral contraception.

Before starting Lipitor and throughout treatment, it is recommended to follow a standard cholesterol-lowering diet. Particular caution should be exercised when prescribing the drug to patients who abuse alcohol and/or suffer from liver disease. In such cases, it is necessary to constantly monitor liver function, and if the activity of AST and ALT increases by more than 3 times, it is recommended to reduce the dose or discontinue the drug. If myopathy occurs or is even suspected, it is also recommended that you stop taking Lipitor and consult a doctor.

It is important to note that the information I have provided is current as of my last update in September 2021. Directions for use and contraindications may change based on new research and medical recommendations, so you should always consult your doctor or pharmacist for the latest information about Lipitor and its use.