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.