Lipitor 40mg tablets contain atorvastatin, a medicine used to reduce LDL cholesterol and to lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and related heart problems. It is taken by mouth once a day.
What it is
Atorvastatin is the active ingredient in this tablet. In this product, it is supplied as atorvastatin calcium. It is taken as a tablet by mouth.
What it's used for
Atorvastatin is used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and angina in adults who have several risk factors for coronary heart disease but no diagnosed heart disease. It is also used to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in adults with type 2 diabetes who have multiple heart disease risk factors. In adults with known coronary heart disease, it helps reduce the risk of non-fatal heart attack, fatal and non-fatal stroke, procedures to restore blood flow, hospitalisation for heart failure, and angina. It is also used together with diet to lower LDL cholesterol.
Common side effects
The most common side effects reported in at least 5% of people taking atorvastatin include a runny or stuffy nose, joint pain, diarrhoea, pain in the arms or legs, and urinary tract infection. If any side effect bothers you or does not go away, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.
Important cautions
Do not take atorvastatin if you have acute liver failure or decompensated cirrhosis, or if you are allergic to atorvastatin or any ingredient in the tablet. Serious muscle problems can occur, especially in people aged 65 or older, people with uncontrolled underactive thyroid, people with kidney problems, people taking certain other medicines, and people on higher doses. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor if you have unexplained muscle pain or weakness. Atorvastatin should also be temporarily stopped during acute or serious conditions that increase the risk of kidney failure from muscle breakdown. It can affect the liver and may cause small increases in blood sugar levels. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take and about any liver or kidney disease.
Frequently asked questions
What is Lipitor 40mg used for?
Lipitor 40mg contains atorvastatin and is used to lower LDL cholesterol and to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and angina in adults with heart disease risk factors. It is also used to reduce heart attack and stroke risk in adults with type 2 diabetes who have multiple risk factors.
What are the side effects of atorvastatin?
Common side effects include a runny or stuffy nose, joint pain, diarrhoea, pain in the arms or legs, and urinary tract infection. Serious side effects can include muscle injury and liver problems, so talk to a pharmacist or doctor if you have concerning symptoms.
Can I buy atorvastatin without a prescription in Nigeria?
According to the product listing on Drugstore.ng, this medicine does not require a prescription. However, you should still speak with a pharmacist or doctor before taking it to be sure it is safe for you.
How should I take atorvastatin 40mg?
Take one tablet by mouth once daily with or without food. The dose can be adjusted based on your cholesterol levels, so follow the instructions from your doctor or pharmacist.
This information is for general guidance only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician or pharmacist before using any medication.
