Atorvastatin 20mg is given along with the proper diet to lower the levels of bad cholesterol and fats such as LDL and triglycerides and increase HDL level in the blood.
It is a type of lipid lowering drug in a class of drugs called “statins”. It reduces cholesterol synthesis by the liver.
Reducing the levels of “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides and rising “good” cholesterol lower the chances of heart disease and prevent strokes and heart attacks.
Additionally, other lifestyle changes that could make this drug work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Seek more information from your doctor.
Atorvastatin 20mg is a particular dose of atorvastatin (a statin drug used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease).
Here’s some information specific to this dosage:
- Dosage and Administration:
- The recommended starting dose of atorvastatin 20mg is typically once daily, with or without food.
- Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on individual response, side effects, and other medical conditions.
- It is important to take atorvastatin 20mg exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Is 20 mg of atorvastatin a low-dose?
A: Whether 20 mg of atorvastatin is considered a low-dose depends on several factors, including:
- The reason you are taking atorvastatin: For preventing cardiovascular disease, 20 mg is often considered a low starting dose. However, for treating high cholesterol, it may be a moderate dose.
- Your individual needs: Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for you based on your age, health status, and response to the medication.
- Other medications you are taking: Some medications can interact with atorvastatin, requiring adjustments in dosage.
Here are some general guidelines:
- Starting dose: The usual starting dose of atorvastatin for most adults is 10-20 mg per day.
- Maximum dose: The maximum recommended dose is 80 mg per day.
- Commonly used doses: 20mg, 40mg, and 80mg
Therefore, 20mg can be considered a low, medium, or high dose depending on the individual circumstances. It’s important to discuss the appropriate dosage with your doctor.
Atorvastatin 20mg Uses
Atorvastatin 20mg is a statin medication used for the following purposes:
Treating High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)
- Atorvastatin 20mg can be used alone or in combination with other medications like bile acid sequestrants to lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides and raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
- This helps prevent the buildup of plaque in arteries, which can lead to cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke.
Preventing Cardiovascular Disease
- In individuals at high risk of cardiovascular events (e.g., with a history of heart attack, stroke, or angina), atorvastatin 20mg can help prevent future events by lowering LDL cholesterol and stabilizing plaque buildup in arteries.
Familial Hypercholesterolemia
- Atorvastatin 20mg is also used to treat familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited condition that causes high levels of LDL cholesterol.
- Other Uses:
- In some cases, atorvastatin 20mg may be prescribed for other conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
It is important to note that atorvastatin 20mg is not a cure for any of these conditions. It is only a tool to help manage them. You should always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and take your medication as prescribed.
Atorvastatin 20mg Side Effects
>> Common side effects
Muscle aches and pain: This is the most common side effect, and usually involves mild pain or weakness in the muscles.
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
>> Less Common Side Effects
Liver problems: This can include elevated liver enzymes, hepatitis, and even liver failure (rare).
Muscle damage (myopathy): This can range from mild muscle pain to a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, which can lead to kidney damage.
Memory problems: Some people have reported experiencing memory loss or confusion while taking atorvastatin.
Diabetes: Atorvastatin can slightly increase the risk of developing diabetes, especially in people who are already at risk.
Other: Less common side effects include insomnia, skin rash, joint pain, and decreased sex drive.
>> Serious Side Effects
Severe allergic reactions: These can include symptoms like hives, swelling of the face and throat, and difficulty breathing.
Rhabdomyolysis: This is a serious muscle breakdown that can lead to kidney damage and even death. Symptoms include muscle pain, weakness, dark urine, and fever.
Liver failure: Although rare, atorvastatin can cause liver failure, which can be fatal. Symptoms include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain.
It is important to note that the risk of these side effects varies depending on several factors, including:
- Your age
- Your overall health
- The dosage of atorvastatin you are taking
- Whether you are taking other medications
If you are concerned about the side effects of atorvastatin, talk to your doctor. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits of the medication and determine if it is right for you.
Precautions
Atorvastatin 20mg should not be taken by:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- People with active liver disease
- People with severe muscle disease
It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking, as some may interact with atorvastatin.
Atorvastatin 20mg Price
Rs. 49.37/tablet
10 tablet(s)/Pack
Pack Size: 10’s tablet
Rs. 493.74
Atorvastatin 20mg – FAQs
What should you monitor while taking Atorvastatin?
- Liver function tests
- Muscle symptoms
- Blood sugar levels
- Cholesterol levels
- Any other side effects
How to store this medicine?
Here’s how to properly store Atorvastatin:
- Keep it in a cool, dry place:
- Keep it in the original container
- Keep it out of the reach of children and pets
- Do not dispose of it in the toilet or drain
What should you not take with Atorvastatin?
Here are some medications you should avoid taking with Atorvastatin:
- Certain antibiotics
- Azole antifungals
- HIV medications
- Gemfibrozil
- Niacin
- Grapefruit juice
It’s important to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies, to avoid any potential interactions.
What happens if you eat grapefruit while taking atorvastatin?
Grapefruit juice can interact with Atorvastatin and increase the risk of side effects. This is because grapefruit juice contains chemicals that inhibit the enzyme responsible for breaking down Atorvastatin in the body. As a result, more of the medication stays in your system and can lead to higher blood levels.
What should I do if I forget to take atorvastatin?
If you forget to take your dose of Atorvastatin, do not take a double dose the next day. Instead, simply take your next scheduled dose as usual.
Disclaimer
The information provided on quickdawa.com regarding medicine prices and side effects is solely based on data collected from public domains. I am not a doctor or medical professional. While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, I cannot guarantee the absolute accuracy or completeness of the data. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or doctor for personalized medical advice and information. The content on this blog should not be considered a substitute for professional medical guidance. The readers are advised to use the information provided at their own discretion and risk. I do not assume any responsibility for any consequences arising from the use of the information on this blog.
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