Atorvastatin calcium
Class: HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (Statin) — lipid-lowering agent
Manufacturer: Sun Pharma
Dosage Form: Film-coated tablets
Similar Brands: Avas (atorvastatin tablets)
Uses:
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Lowering elevated LDL-cholesterol and total cholesterol
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Reducing cardiovascular risk (myocardial infarction, stroke)
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Treatment of dyslipidaemias (heterozygous familial, mixed dyslipidaemia)
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Primary and secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
Dosage:
Adults:
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Usual starting dose: 10–20 mg once daily
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Dose may be adjusted based on response and risk (20–80 mg once daily)
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Maximum recommended: 80 mg once daily
Take at the same time daily, with or without food.
Children (≥10 years) with familial hypercholesterolaemia:
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As prescribed by physician (typically starting 10 mg once daily)
Side Effects:
Common:
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Headache
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Nausea
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Abdominal discomfort
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Mild muscle aches (myalgia)
Uncommon / serious (require medical attention):
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Elevated liver enzymes
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Myopathy / rhabdomyolysis
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Hepatotoxicity
Warnings & Precautions:
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Monitor liver function before and during therapy
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Assess for muscle pain, weakness or dark urine (possible myopathy/rhabdomyolysis)
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Use with caution in hepatic impairment
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Avoid excessive alcohol
Pregnancy & Lactation:
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Pregnancy: Contraindicated — statins may harm the fetus
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Lactation: Not recommended — atorvastatin and metabolites may pass into breast milk
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a physician.
Drug Interactions:
May have increased risk of side effects or altered levels with:
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Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., erythromycin, ketoconazole)
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Protease inhibitors
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Fibrates and niacin (↑ risk of myopathy)
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Warfarin (monitor INR)
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Grapefruit juice (may increase levels)
Contraindications:
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Hypersensitivity to atorvastatin or any component
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Active liver disease or persistent unexplained transaminase elevation
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Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Price: Ksh 984.2/- (Aztor 40mg 10s)
Notes:
Pack Size: 10s