266 Atorvastatin Tablets IP 10mg

Atorvastatin is a statin medication primarily used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Overview of Atorvastatin

• Composition: Atorvastatin tablets typically come in various strengths, with 10 mg being a common dosage.

• Form: While specifically requested as "prolonged-release capsules," Atorvastatin is generally available in tablet form. Prolonged-release formulations may be offered by specific brands or under specific conditions, thus it would be advisable to consult a local pharmacy or healthcare provider for exact formulations available in Kolkata, West Bengal.

Uses of Atorvastatin

• Cholesterol Management: Atorvastatin is primarily used to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly referred to as "bad" cholesterol, while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as "good" cholesterol.

• Indications: It is often prescribed for:

  • Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol levels).

  • Prevention of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

How Atorvastatin Works

• Atorvastatin functions by inhibiting an enzyme known as HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a crucial role in the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver. By reducing cholesterol production, it helps prevent the build-up of fat in arteries, reducing the risk of heart diseases.

Dosage and Administration

• The standard initial dosage of Atorvastatin is usually 10 to 20 mg once daily, which may be adjusted based on patient response and cholesterol levels.

• Administration: Atorvastatin tablets can be taken with or without food; however, consistency in the time of intake is recommended for optimal effectiveness.

Side Effects

• Common side effects of Atorvastatin include:

  • Muscle pain or weakness

  • Nausea and abdominal pain

  • Diarrhea and indigestion

  • Headache

  • Fatigue

• Severe, but rare, side effects may include liver complications and rhabdomyolysis (a serious condition involving muscle breakdown). Regular monitoring of liver function tests may be required during treatment.

Precautions

• Warning for Specific Groups: Atorvastatin is generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to potential risks to the fetus or infant. It should also be used cautiously in individuals with liver or kidney disease.

• Alcohol consumption should be approached with caution while taking Atorvastatin, as it may potentially increase the risk of liver damage.

Availability

• Atorvastatin is widely available in pharmacies; in Kolkata, consult with local pharmacies or healthcare providers to find the specific product you are looking for (including prolonged-release formulations, if available).

For more specific information tailored to your personal health needs or if you have other inquiries related to Atorvastatin, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.