Cholesterol-lowering statin drugs such as Atorvastatin are among the most widely prescribed drugs on the market today. Statins aim to lower blood cholesterol by reducing the amount of cholesterol the liver produces. Besides lowering cholesterol, they have several other effects. With regular consumption of oral statin, not only your bad cholesterol or LDL but also your triglycerides levels. It can boost the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) too. Research studies have shown the beneficial effects of this statin drug on cholesterol levels. The treatment has shown promise for everything from lowering cholesterol to protecting heart health.
What is Atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin is combined with diet to reduce elevated total cholesterol, bad cholesterol, triglycerides, or LDL (low-density lipoprotein) in adults, adolescents, and children under the age of ten. It is suitable for individuals with hypercholesterolemia or combined hyperlipidemia when the response to diet and lifestyle modifications is inadequate. It may be prescribed to reduce total cholesterol and bad cholesterol in adults with hypercholesterolemia in combination with lipid-lowering treatments such as LDL apheresis. Atorvastatin can also be taken to prevent heart attack, stroke, or any heart disease.
What is working?
Like other statin medications, Atorvastatin reduces the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart attack by stopping the deposition of excess cholesterol in the major blood vessels of the heart and brain. Cholesterol is a waxy chemical that plays a crucial role in body function. However, it should be needed in the right places and quantities. Cholesterol is carried around the body in small globules made of protein and fat; the type of fat determines whether cholesterol is good or bad. Good cholesterol is carried around by high-density protein or HDL.
Facts about Atorvastatin usage
You may be prescribed Atorvastatin if you have been diagnosed with high blood cholesterol. It is extremely beneficial for the prevention of heart disease, including heart attacks and strokes. You may get it if you have a family history of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes. It is wise to use it under the supervision of a healthcare specialist. The medicine is available in the form of tablets for oral administration. Generally, the statin tablet is prescribed to be taken once daily. The most common side effects of the medicine are headaches, diarrhea, cold-like symptoms, and nausea. Women who are pregnant or are trying to get pregnant are advised to stay away from this medicine. Continue the treatment even if you feel well and still get the same benefits. Most people with elevated cholesterol levels don’t experience any symptoms. Atorvastatin is supplied in various brand names, including Lipitor, Atorva, etc.
The treatment is suitable for adults and children over ten years of age. There may be possibilities that medicine doesn’t suit some people, including those who:
- are allergic to Atorvastatin or any other ingredients of the medicine
- Have severe lung disorder
- have renal or hepatic insufficiency
- Have a history of stroke caused by bleeding into the brain
- Have an underactive thyroid
- Drink a large amount of alcohol
- Have a muscle disorder, also called fibromyalgia
Take medicine once a day. You can choose to take it at any time. To avoid missed dose situations, prefer taking it simultaneously every day. Sometimes, the health care specialist recommends taking it in the evening. This may be because it is believed that our body makes most cholesterol at night. If you have doubts or are unsure when to take your medicine, talk to your hair care specialist. Statins don’t upset the stomach; hence, one can take it without regard to food. Swallow the tablet with enough water.
The healthcare professional will best determine the dosage and duration of the treatment. For pediatric use, the lowest dose should be prescribed. A healthcare specialist will consider your child’s age to determine the amount of Atorvastatin that suits them. The dose generally depends on the patient’s condition, his/her cholesterol levels, and what they have used other medicines. You must consult your healthcare specialist for advice if you are unsure about the dosage and duration of the medication. You are not allowed to make dose adjustments without the permission of your healthcare specialist.
Marie
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