Atorvastatin is a cholesterol lowering medication belonging to the statin class, also known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. It is commonly prescribed to reduce elevated cholesterol levels and lower cardiovascular risk in people with hyperlipidemia, coronary heart disease, diabetes, or other cardiovascular risk factors. Atorvastatin 20mg tablets are available as prescription medications in Canada.
Atorvastatin works by selectively and competitively inhibiting HMG CoA reductase, the rate limiting enzyme involved in the liver’s production of cholesterol. Blocking this enzyme decreases hepatic cholesterol synthesis and increases the number of LDL receptors on liver cells, allowing the liver to remove more low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL C) from the bloodstream.
LDL cholesterol is commonly referred to as “bad cholesterol” because elevated concentrations contribute to the development of atherosclerotic plaque within arteries. By substantially reducing LDL C, atorvastatin can help slow the progression of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and reduce the likelihood of serious cardiovascular events.
Atorvastatin can also reduce total cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, and triglyceride concentrations while producing modest increases in high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL C) in some patients. The liver is the primary site of both cholesterol synthesis and LDL clearance, making it the principal site of atorvastatin’s pharmacological activity.
Clinical indications for atorvastatin include treatment of primary hyperlipidemia and familial hypercholesterolemia, as well as cardiovascular risk reduction. Current prescribing information includes reduction of the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary revascularization procedures, and angina in appropriately selected patients with cardiovascular disease or significant risk factors.
This product provides:
- Active Ingredient: Atorvastatin
- Common Form: Atorvastatin Calcium
- Strength: 20mg per tablet
- Quantity: 100 Tablets
- Drug Class: HMG CoA Reductase Inhibitor / Statin
- Dosage Form: Oral Tablet
- Common Uses: High cholesterol and cardiovascular risk reduction
Atorvastatin is metabolized primarily through the CYP3A4 enzyme system, making drug interactions an important consideration. Certain medications that strongly inhibit CYP3A4 can increase atorvastatin concentrations and potentially increase the risk of adverse effects. Patients should have their prescription medications, supplements, and other potential interactions reviewed by a healthcare professional.
One of the most important adverse effects associated with statins is muscle toxicity. Unexplained muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness can occasionally indicate statin associated myopathy and, in rare cases, a serious condition known as rhabdomyolysis. The risk can increase with higher atorvastatin exposure and certain interacting medications.
Atorvastatin can also cause changes in liver enzymes, and liver related symptoms or laboratory abnormalities may require medical assessment. Other commonly reported effects can include muscle or joint discomfort, diarrhea, nausea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Statin therapy can produce small increases in blood glucose and HbA1c levels in some patients. However, for appropriately selected patients at cardiovascular risk, the reduction in heart attack and stroke risk generally forms an important part of the clinical rationale for treatment.
Atorvastatin is a prescription medication and should be used according to the directions and monitoring recommendations of a qualified healthcare professional.
