Atorvastatin is popularly
used drug for reducing cholesterol. The medicine is often take with
a strict dietary and exercise regime for this. The drug belongs to
the class of special medications known as the HMG-CoA reductase
inhibitors (statins).
Brand Name: Sortis, Torvast, Totalip, Tulip, Xarator or
Liprimar
Iupac Name: [R-(R*, R*)]-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-beta,
delta-dihydroxy-5- (1-methylethyl)-3-phenyl-4-
[(phenylamino)carbonyl]-1H- pyrrole-1-heptanoic acid
Dosage
Initially: 10 mg daily. May be increased up to 80 mg once daily
Working
Atorvastatin acts by competitively inhibiting 3-hydroxy-3-methyl
glutaryl co-enzyme A (HMGCoA) reductase, an enzyme involved in
cholesterol synthesis. It works by reducing the production of
cholesterol in the body.
Contra- Indications: Hypersensitivity, active liver disease,
Pregnancy and lactation
Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in
different ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are
often associated with the drug:
- GI effects like abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
- Insomnia
- Anorexia
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Impotence
Disclaimer: The above information is for general
understanding of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical
practitioner before taking the aforesaid medicine.
