Drug Uses

Lipitor is used in combination with a diet regime such as restriction of cholesterol and fat intake for reduction of the cholesterol levels and particular fatty substances in the blood. The accumulation of cholesterol and fats on the wall of the arteries, which is known as atherosclerosis, reduces the blood flow and thus, the oxygen supply to the heart, brain and other parts of the body. The reduction of the cholesterol and fats in the blood may be helpful for the prevention of heart disease, angina (chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks.

How Taken

Lipitor is available in the form of tablets and is taken orally. The common dosage is one tablet a day taken with or without food. It may be helpful to take the medicine at the same time every day so you will not forget to take it. At the beginning your doctor may prescribe you a low dose and then gradually increase it. Do not stop taking Lipitor even if you feel better and without a consultation with your doctor. You should reduce the cholesterol and fats in your diet.

Warnings/Precautions

Consult your doctor before taking Lipitor if you have a liver disease. Inform your doctor if you have a chronic muscular disease, require major surgery, or have a blood disorder. If you suffer from any of the above-mentioned conditions, you may not been able to use Lipitor or your dosage may have to be adjusted, or you may have to be monitored during the treatment. Lipitor falls into the FDA pregnancy category X which means the medicine is known to cause birth defects to a fetus. You should not take Lipitor if you are pregnant and may become pregnant during a therapy with the medicine. Consult your doctor before taking Lipitor if you are breast feeding because the medicine passes into breast milk.

Missed Dose

In case you miss a dose, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember. However, if it is already time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and take the regular dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up the missed one.

Possible Side Effects

Adverse effects caused by Lipitor are not common and frequent, but they may still occur. Inform your doctor if the following side effects are serious or continue for a long period: -gas
-stomach pain or cramps
-diarrhea
-constipation
-heartburn
-headache
-blurred vision
-dizziness
-rash or itching
-upset stomach
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these side effects:
-muscle pain
-tenderness
-muscle cramps or weakness with or without a fever.

Storage

Lipitor should be stored in its original tightly-closed container. Keep the medicine away from children. Lipitor should be stored at a room temperature, away from heat and moisture (do not keep it in the bathroom). Throw the medicine if it is outdated or you don't need it anymore. Consult your pharmacist about the proper disposal of the medicine.

Overdose

Immediately search for medical help if you suspect an overdose. The symptoms of an overdose of Lipitor are not known.

More Information

Both alcohol and Lipitor may damage the liver. You should use alcohol in moderation. Talk to your doctor about alcohol consummation so the possibilities of liver problems can be determined. The interaction of grapefruit and grapefruit juice with Lipitor may have dangerous effects.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.