Stat-A

Introduction

Atorvastatin is a widely prescribed medicine in Pakistan for lowering blood cholesterol levels. It works by blocking the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for cholesterol production in the liver. By reducing cholesterol, it helps prevent heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular disease.

How it Works

Atorvastatin reduces:

• LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol).

• Triglycerides.

• While increasing HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol).
  This improves overall heart health and lowers cardiovascular risk.

Primary Uses

• High cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia).

• Prevention of heart disease and stroke.

• Reducing risk of cardiovascular events in diabetic and high-risk patients.

How to Use

• Take with or without meals, as advised by your doctor.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water.

• Take at the same time daily for best effect.

• Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.

• Do not stop taking without consulting your doctor.

• Dosage is based on age, health condition, and response to therapy.

Expert Advice

• Take with or without meals, but stay consistent with timing.

• Avoid high intake of grapefruit juice (>1 litre/day).

• Drink 2–3 litres of water daily (unless restricted by your doctor).

• Report immediately if you experience:

  • Persistent diarrhea or fever.

  • Unusual muscle pain, cramps, or weakness.

  • Mood or memory changes.

  • Yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice).

  • Easy bruising or unusual fatigue.

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless it’s almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose.

• Regular lab tests (liver function, lipid profile) are important during treatment.

Side Effects (Possible but not in everyone)

• Headache, nausea, or stomach upset.

• Muscle pain or cramps (rare but serious: rhabdomyolysis).

• Liver enzyme changes.

• Diarrhea or constipation.

• Fatigue or dizziness.

Precautions & Warnings

• Use with caution in patients with liver disease or heavy alcohol use.

• Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• Inform your doctor of all medications, especially antibiotics, antifungals, or other cholesterol-lowering drugs.

• Regular check-ups are necessary for long-term users.

Reviewed by: Dr. Asif Mahmood, MBBS, FCPS (Cardiology)

“Atorvastatin is one of the most commonly prescribed statins in Pakistan for patients with high cholesterol and cardiovascular risk. It is highly effective in reducing LDL cholesterol and preventing heart attacks. However, monitoring is essential to watch for liver changes and rare but serious muscle side effects.”

Disclaimer:
This information is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a prescription. Always consult a licensed physician in Pakistan before starting or adjusting cholesterol-lowering therapy.