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LIPITOR
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Lipitor Generic Name: Atorvastatin Calcium
Lipitor Classification: Cholesterol-lowering Agent
Lipitor is used to treat:
Hypercholesterolemia (High blood cholesterol levels)
Coronary Artery Disease - Prevention of atherosclerosis (hardening of heart arteries)
Heart disease - Reduces the risk of a heart attack
(These are common indications for Lipitor. There may be additional conditions not listed here. Check with your doctor if you have questions about your specific condition).
General Directions for Taking Lipitor:
Take Lipitor only as directed. Regular dosing of
Lipitor helps to control cholesterol levels and to reach expected results within several weeks.
If you miss a Lipitor dose, take the Lipitor as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next
Lipitor dose, take only 1 dose of Lipitor. DO NOT double up the
Lipitor doses.
You may take Lipitor with or without food.
Take Lipitor at the same time every day, usually at bedtime or with evening meal as directed.
Follow a low fat diet and exercise program as directed by your doctor.
Stop smoking. Ask your doctor if you need help.
Female patients should practice some form of birth control while taking
Lipitor. Talk to your doctor about which form of contraception is best for you.
Notify all health care providers that you are taking
Lipitor prior to any procedure.
Use sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater), wear protective clothing, and avoid excessive sunlight exposure.
Lipitor may increase your sensitivity to the sun's rays.
Keep scheduled appointments with your doctor to monitor blood cholesterol levels, effectiveness of medications, and side effects.
Lipitor Contraindications:
Allergies - Hypersensitivity to Lipitor or Lipitor
components
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding - Lipitor may not be safe for your baby. Talk to your doctor about risks and benefits.
Patients who suffer from liver disease with elevated blood liver function tests.
Use Lipitor with caution in:
Females of childbearing age
Children less than 18 years of age
Patients with alcoholism; electrolyte, hormonal, or metabolic disorders; or severe infections
Patients taking Erythromycin (antibiotics), immunosuppressants, or niacin supplements
Patients with uncontrolled seizures, vision problems, chronic muscle pain, or kidney disease
Common Lipitor Side Effects:
May occur during the first few days after beginning therapy, but usually resolve:
Dizziness, blurred vision, upset stomach, abdominal cramping, gas, heartburn, unusual taste, diarrhea, constipation, skin rashes and itching, or headaches
Serious Lipitor Side Effects:
Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or cramping; unusual tiredness or weakness; vision problems; or jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)
Allergic reaction symptoms such as a red skin rash; itching; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat; wheezing; chest pain; and difficulty breathing
Lipitor Interactions:
Drug - There are many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, which will alter the action of
Lipitor. Some include antacids, other cholesterol-lowering agents, antibiotics, anti-fungal agents, immunosuppressant medications, heart medications, niacin supplements, or birth control pills.
It is extremely important that you consult with your doctor about
Lipitor dosing schedules if you take a variety of medications along with
Lipitor. DO NOT take any new medication without talking with your doctor first.
Lipitor Warnings:
Lipitor Overdose - Can lead to an elevation of liver enzymes and worsening of side effects.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. May worsen of side effects.
Female patients - Notify your doctor if you become pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or begin breastfeeding while taking
Lipitor.
Keep Lipitor and all other medications out of reach of children and pets.
General Lipitor Dosage Information:
Lipitor dosing is individually based. Talk to your doctor about your specific
Lipitor dosing schedule:
Lipitor Storage:
Keep Lipitor at room temperature.
Protect Lipitor from sunlight and moisture.
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