Lipitor Tablet 20 mg (Atorvastatin Calcium Hydrate)

Adult dosage

The recommended initial dose for hyperlipidemia is atorvastatin 10 mg once daily; however, if greater LDL cholesterol reduction is needed, it can start at 20 mg or 40 mg once daily. This medication is administered at a dosage range of 10 to 80 mg once daily. Adjustments should be individualized based on therapeutic goals and response, and lipid levels should be analyzed 2 to 4 weeks after the initiation or adjustment of dose.

Children's dosage

The recommended initial dose for pediatric patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (ages 10 to 17) is 10 mg once daily, with a maximum dosage of 20 mg per day. The dosage should be adjusted with intervals of 4 weeks or more.

This medication may cause muscle problems, so if symptoms of muscle pain or weakness occur, consult a doctor immediately. If there is a significant increase in muscle enzyme levels or suspicion of myopathy, discontinuation of the medication is necessary. Patients with poor liver function or active liver disease should not take this medication. Women who are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are nursing should not use this medication. It is safe for children under 10 years old to not take this medication. Alcoholics or patients with a history of liver disease should use this medication with caution. Elderly patients or those with impaired kidney function are at a higher risk of developing myopathy and should be monitored closely. This medication may interact with various other drugs; therefore, patients taking other medications should inform their physician or pharmacist. In particular, the risk of muscle damage may increase when used in combination with certain antibiotics, antifungals, or some antiviral medications. Grapefruit juice can also increase the blood concentration of this medication, so excessive intake should be avoided. If symptoms of liver dysfunction such as nausea, vomiting, malaise occur during treatment, seek medical attention immediately. Regular liver function and muscle enzyme tests are important while taking this medication. Notify healthcare professionals immediately if symptoms such as muscle pain, weakness, fever, or fatigue occur. If skin reactions such as blistering rashes, hives, or itching appear while taking this medication, discontinue use and seek medical attention. In case of overdose, there are no specific antidotes; therefore, treatment should be provided according to symptoms, and liver function and muscle enzyme levels should be monitored.

Serious side effects

• Hives
• severe swelling (edema)
• chest tightness
• difficulty breathing
• cold sweat
• paleness
• severe rash with high fever
• blisters
• skin peeling
• pain in mucous membranes (mouth/eyes)

Mild side effects

• Weakness
• malaise
• chest pain
• peripheral edema
• fatigue
• fever
• rhinopharyngitis
• hyperglycemia
• hypoglycemia
• weight gain

This medication should be stored in a tightly sealed container to protect it from air or moisture. Additionally, it is best stored at room temperature between 1 to 30 degrees Celsius.

Appearance

White oval film-coated tablet

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 100 tablets/bottle