Lipitor

The information on this product's packaging is Turkish language only.

Uses
Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) belongs to a group of medications referred to as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (these drugs are sometimes called statins). Patients that are overweight, who suffer from high cholesterol levels, diabetic patients or any other patients considered to be in the risk category are treated with this medication, to help reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes or any other severe complications. Together with a healthy diet and regular exercise, it can reduce the amounts of LDL (low density lipoprotein, sometimes called bad cholesetrol), while also increasing the levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL, sometimes called good cholesterol).

Dosage and Administration
When you visit your doctor for a medical check up, he or she will tell you how much Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) you need to take. Adults preventing cardiovascular disease may be told to take 10mg to 80mg per day, with the exact amount being decided by the prescribing doctor. Dosage adjustments may be required every 2 to 4 weeks if your doctor deems it necessary. If your doctor has prescribed this medicine for you to treat hyperlipidaemia, you may be told to start out on either 10mg, 20mg or 40mg per day, with dosage adjustments every 2 to 4 weeks (at the discretion of your doctor).

Side effects
Some possible side effects of Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) include:

• Alopecia
• Forgetfulness
• Problems sleeping
• Swelling of the joints
• A blocked or stuffy nose

Other possible reactions include hyperglycaemia, peripheral oedema, pancreatitis, thrombocytopenia, enlargement of the breasts in male patients and other reactions which have not been listed here. Remember that you should tell your doctor about any side effects which occur. If you experience a severe reaction, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Precautions
Patients may need to continue treatment with this drug on a long term basis (unless told not to take it by a doctor), as stopping treatment can result in cholesterol levels rising again.

Consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice may affect the metabolism of this drug, possible resulting in an increased level of the active ingredient in the blood. Therefore, this should be avoided during treatment.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Lipitor (Atorvastatin Calcium) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.