Atorvastatin 20MG (ATODER 20MG TAB)

What is Atorvastatin for:

It is used to stop heart attacks. - It is used to stop strokes. - It is used to lower cholesterol and other harmful types of cholesterol in the body. - Good cholesterol (HDL) levels rise. - It is used to lower triglycerides. - It is used to slow the progress of heart disease.

How does Atorvastatin work:

Atorvastatin works by blocking an enzyme that is required for production of cholesterol.

How should Atorvastatin be used:

Take Atorvastatin exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor. - You may take Atorvastatin with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day. - Atorvastatin must be taken regularly for it to be effective. - Continue taking Atorvastatin even if there are signs of improvement. - Do not stop taking Atorvastatin unless instructed by the doctor.

Common side effects of Atorvastatin :

Headache, Belly pain, Loose stools (diarrhea), Muscle weakness, Joint pain.

What do I do if I miss a dose

Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it. - If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. - Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses. - Do not change the dose or stop this drug. - Talk with the doctor.

What precautions should I take when taking Atorvastatin :

Do not take Atorvastatin if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon. - If you become pregnant while being treated with Atorvastatin, alert your doctor immediately. - Atorvastatin may cause harm to your unborn child. - You must use proven birth control methods while taking Atorvastatin and for at least 1 month after stopping Atorvastatin. 

When do I need to seek medical help

If you think there was an overdose, call your local poison control center or ER right away. - Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug. - These include wheezing, chest tightness, fever, itching, bad cough, blue or gray skin color, seizures, or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. - Very low blood sugar or very high blood sugar. .

Can I take Atorvastatin with other medicines:

Atorvastatin should not be taken at the same time as cholestyramine. - Cholestyramine reduces the effectiveness of Atorvastatin when taken at the same time. - If you are taking cholestyramine, take it at least 4 hours after you have taken Atorvastatin. - Alert your doctor if you are taking any of these medicines: - heart medicines such as diltiazem or digoxin. - Other cholesterol-lowering medicines such as gemfibrozil or nicotinic acid. - Antibiotics such as erythromycin or clarithromycin. 

How do I store Atorvastatin :

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. - Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.