Atorva 80 Tablet

ATORVA 80 TABLET by ZYDUS CADILA

ATORVA 80 Tablet is a widely prescribed medication belonging to the statin class, primarily used to manage cholesterol and lipid levels in the blood. Manufactured by Zydus Cadila, it is an essential part of a comprehensive treatment program for cardiovascular health.

Composition

The active ingredient in ATORVA 80 Tablet is Atorvastatin, in an 80mg strength. Atorvastatin works by inhibiting the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, which is crucial for cholesterol production in the liver. This action effectively lowers "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides while increasing "good" cholesterol (HDL) levels in the blood.

Uses

ATORVA 80 Tablet is prescribed for:

• High Cholesterol (Hypercholesterolemia) and Hyperlipidemia: To lower elevated levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
• Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases: To reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart-related conditions, especially in individuals with existing heart conditions or risk factors.
• Mixed Dyslipidemia and Hypertriglyceridemia: To manage imbalances in blood lipid profiles.
• As an adjunct to diet and lifestyle modifications when these alone are insufficient to achieve desired lipid levels.

Dosage and Administration

ATORVA 80 Tablet should be taken exactly as directed by a healthcare professional.

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
• It can be taken with or without food.
• For optimal results and ease of recall, it is recommended to take the tablet at approximately the same time each day.
• The typical dosage for Atorvastatin ranges from 10 mg to a maximum of 80 mg once daily, with adjustments made by the doctor at intervals of 4 weeks or more based on patient response.
• Do not exceed the prescribed dose or stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, indigestion, constipation, flatulence, and diarrhea.
• Headache, muscle pain (myalgia), joint pain, and back pain.
• Fatigue (asthenia), abdominal pain, and muscle weakness.
• Cold-like symptoms, such as a runny or blocked nose, sore throat, or sneezing.

Serious side effects, though rare, can occur:

• Muscle weakness, tenderness, pain, or rupture (rhabdomyolysis), which may lead to dark-colored urine and kidney problems.
• Allergic reactions, elevated blood sugar (hyperglycemia), and blurred vision.
• Liver problems, indicated by symptoms like stomach pains, unusually dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
• Severe skin reactions, including peeling, blistering, and swelling.
• Memory loss, which is usually non-serious and reversible upon discontinuation.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take ATORVA 80 Tablet if you are allergic to atorvastatin or any of its components.
• Liver Conditions: It is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease, severe liver impairment, or unexplained abnormal liver function tests.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy, when planning pregnancy, or during breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as interactions can occur with other cholesterol-lowering drugs, anticoagulants, anti-HIV medications, anti-infectives, and certain antifungal drugs.
• Grapefruit Juice and Alcohol: Avoid consuming grapefruit juice, as it can increase the concentration of atorvastatin and lead to side effects. Limit or avoid alcohol intake due to an increased risk of liver problems.
• Underlying Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney problems, diabetes, or hypothyroidism, and regular monitoring may be required.
• Lifestyle: Adherence to a healthy, low-fat diet, regular exercise, and weight management are crucial for the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Pediatric Use: Not recommended for children under 10 years of age.

Storage

Store ATORVA 80 Tablet below 25°C or 30°C in a cool and dry place. Keep the medicine in its original blister pack or a tightly closed container, away from direct light and moisture. Ensure it is kept out of sight and reach of children and pets. Always check the expiry date before use.

Here are frequently asked questions about ATORVA 80 TABLET (Atorvastatin 80mg):

What is ATORVA 80 TABLET used for?

ATORVA 80 TABLET is primarily used to lower high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (fats) in the blood. It helps to reduce "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides while increasing "good" cholesterol (HDL). By doing so, it significantly lowers the risk of developing heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes, especially in individuals with existing heart conditions or risk factors. It is typically used in conjunction with a low-fat diet and lifestyle changes when these measures alone are insufficient.

How does ATORVA 80 TABLET work?

ATORVA 80 TABLET contains Atorvastatin, which belongs to a class of medicines called statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors). It works by blocking an enzyme in the liver called HMG-CoA reductase, which is essential for the body to produce cholesterol. By inhibiting this enzyme, Atorvastatin reduces the amount of cholesterol made in the liver, leading to lower levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides in the blood. It also helps to increase the levels of "good" cholesterol (HDL).

What is the usual dosage for ATORVA 80 TABLET?

For adults, the typical dosage of Atorvastatin ranges from 10 mg to 80 mg, taken once daily. The starting dose is usually 10 mg or 20 mg once a day, but some patients might begin with 40 mg daily if a greater reduction in LDL-C is needed. The maximum recommended dose is 80 mg once daily. It is important to take the medicine at the same time each day, and it can be taken with or without food, as directed by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of ATORVA 80 TABLET?

Common side effects may include headache, nausea, constipation or diarrhea, indigestion, stomach discomfort, muscle or joint pain, back pain, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, and a general feeling of tiredness.

More serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. These include unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (especially if accompanied by fever or dark-colored urine, which could indicate a serious muscle problem called rhabdomyolysis), signs of liver damage (such as upper right stomach pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes), and allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat). This medicine may also increase blood sugar levels.

Is ATORVA 80 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, ATORVA 80 TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy and is considered contraindicated. It may cause harm to an unborn baby, as cholesterol is vital for fetal development. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking it and contact your doctor immediately.

Regarding breastfeeding, it is generally advised not to breastfeed while taking Atorvastatin. While small amounts may pass into breast milk, there is concern about the potential disruption of the infant's lipid metabolism. Your doctor or pharmacist can provide specific guidance based on your individual situation.

Can ATORVA 80 TABLET be taken with other medications?

ATORVA 80 TABLET can interact with several other medications, which may increase the risk of side effects or alter its effectiveness. It's crucial to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Specific interactions may occur with:

• Certain antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin, fusidic acid).
• Antifungal medications (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole).
• HIV and Hepatitis C medications.
• Other cholesterol-lowering drugs such as fibrates (e.g., gemfibrozil, fenofibrate).
• Blood thinners like warfarin.
• Immunosuppressants like ciclosporin.
• Certain heart and blood pressure medications (e.g., amlodipine, diltiazem, verapamil, amiodarone, digoxin).
• Oral contraceptive pills.
• St. John's wort, an herbal supplement.

Grapefruit juice should be avoided or consumed in very limited quantities (less than 1.2 liters per day) as it can increase the levels of atorvastatin in your blood and raise the risk of muscle problems. Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum hydroxide may decrease the concentration of atorvastatin, so it's advised to take antacids at least two hours after your atorvastatin dose.

What precautions should be taken while taking ATORVA 80 TABLET?

Before taking ATORVA 80 TABLET, inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, a thyroid disorder, or muscle pain or weakness. Also, mention if you consume more than two alcoholic beverages daily, as alcohol can increase the risk of liver problems.

Your doctor will likely monitor your progress with regular blood tests to check cholesterol levels and liver function. It is important to continue following a cholesterol-lowering diet, exercise, and weight management plan as advised by your doctor. If you are scheduled for surgery, including dental surgery, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking this medication.

What happens if a dose of ATORVA 80 TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of ATORVA 80 TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose (generally if it's more than 12 hours late), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should ATORVA 80 TABLET be stored?

ATORVA 80 TABLET should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). Keep it in its original container, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not store it in damp areas like bathrooms or allow it to freeze. Always keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets.