Atorfit 40 Mg Tablet (20 Tab)

ATORFIT 40 MG TABLET (20 TAB) by AJANTA PHARMA LIMITED

Name

• Brand Name: ATORFIT 40 MG TABLET
• Common Name: Atorvastatin (active ingredient)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Atorvastatin 40 mg

Uses

ATORFIT 40 MG TABLET belongs to a class of medicines called statins, primarily used to lower elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It is prescribed when diet and lifestyle changes alone are insufficient in managing these lipid levels.

Specific uses include:

• Managing high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidaemia, hyperlipidemia)
• Reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Prevention of cardiovascular diseases in individuals with existing heart conditions or risk factors.
• Can be prescribed for individuals with a family history of raised cholesterol in coronary heart disease, type 1 or type 2 diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis.

Dosage and Administration

ATORFIT 40 MG TABLET is typically taken once daily. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at approximately the same time each day for optimal results and to aid memory. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not chewed, crushed, or broken. Your doctor will determine the specific dose and duration based on your medical condition. Do not take more than the prescribed dose or discontinue the medicine without consulting your doctor. Regular lipid profile checks are essential during treatment.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ATORFIT 40 MG TABLET may include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Indigestion (dyspepsia)
• Muscle pain (myalgia)
• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue (asthenia)
• Joint pain
• Back pain
• Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passage and throat)

Serious side effects, though less common, can include:

• Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, breathing difficulty)
• Hyperglycemia (excess of glucose in the bloodstream)
• Liver problems (unusually dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, stomach pains)
• Muscle injury (myopathy and rhabdomyolysis)

Most common side effects are usually mild and temporary. Consult your doctor if side effects persist or worsen.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take ATORFIT 40 MG TABLET if you are allergic to atorvastatin or any other components of the tablet.
• Liver Disease: This medicine is contraindicated in individuals with active liver disease. Liver function tests should be conducted before and during treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: ATORFIT 40 MG TABLET is contraindicated during pregnancy and for breastfeeding mothers.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid consuming alcohol as it can increase the risk of liver problems and elevate triglyceride levels.
• Diabetes: Use with caution in diabetic patients as it may increase blood sugar levels. Monitor blood glucose closely.
• Kidney Problems: Caution is advised; inform your doctor if you have kidney disease.
• Musculoskeletal Disorders: Inform your doctor if you have a history of muscle-related problems, muscle pain, weakness, or disorders like myopathy or rhabdomyolysis.
• Drug Interactions:
  • Avoid taking with immune system-affecting medicines (e.g., cyclosporine) or certain anti-HIV medicines (e.g., lopinavir, ritonavir, atazanavir, indinavir) as this may lead to serious effects.
  • Inform your doctor if you have recently taken or are taking antibiotics such as fusidic acid, as this may cause serious muscle injury.
  • Avoid grapefruit juice as it may make the medicine less effective.
• Other Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have hypothyroidism, severe lung disease, a history of stroke with bleeding inside the brain, or are elderly (above 70 years of age).

Storage

Store ATORFIT 40 MG TABLET in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, and below 30°C. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions about ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet

ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet contains atorvastatin, a medication belonging to a class of drugs called statins. It is primarily used to manage high cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

What is ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet used for?

ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet is primarily used to lower high levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides (fats) in the blood. It also helps to increase levels of "good" cholesterol (HDL). By improving cholesterol levels, it significantly reduces the risk of heart diseases such as heart attacks and strokes, especially in individuals with existing heart conditions or risk factors like type 1 or type 2 diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis.

How does ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet work?

ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet works by inhibiting an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, which is essential for the body to produce cholesterol in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, atorvastatin effectively reduces the production of cholesterol, thereby lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglyceride levels and increasing good cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. This action helps prevent cholesterol buildup on artery walls, which can block blood flow to the heart and brain.

What is the usual dosage of ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet?

The specific dose and duration of ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet are determined by your doctor based on your medical condition and response to treatment. It is typically taken once daily at the same time, with or without food. It's important to swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water and not to chew, crush, or break it. Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

What are the possible side effects of ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet?

Common side effects of ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet include headache, muscle pain (myalgia), joint pain, nausea, indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. Serious but less common side effects can include:

• Muscle injury: Unusual weakness, pain, or tenderness, especially if accompanied by fever or dark-colored urine. This could indicate a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis.
• Liver injury: Right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stool, dark yellow or brown urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
• Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Increased blood sugar levels.

If you experience any serious side effects, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Is ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy, if you are planning to become pregnant, or while breastfeeding. Atorvastatin may harm the fetus. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while taking this medication.

Can ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet can interact with certain medications, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal remedies you are currently taking or plan to take. Specific interactions to be aware of include:

• Certain antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin, fusidic acid) and antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole).
• Certain antivirals for HIV or hepatitis.
• Other cholesterol-lowering medicines (e.g., gemfibrozil, fenofibrate, niacin).
• Anticoagulants like warfarin.
• Immunosuppressants like cyclosporine.
• Grapefruit juice: Consuming large amounts of grapefruit juice can increase the level of atorvastatin in your body, leading to a higher risk of side effects.
• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet, as it can increase triglyceride levels and raise the risk of liver damage and other side effects.

What precautions should be taken?

Before taking ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet, inform your doctor if you have any underlying medical conditions, especially liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, or a history of muscle pain or weakness. Regular monitoring of liver function tests may be recommended by your doctor. If you are diabetic, monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, as this medicine may increase them. Avoid smoking and maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a low-fat diet and regular exercise, for optimal results.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose (e.g., 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 the forgotten one, as this may increase the risk of side effects.

How should it be stored?

ATORFIT 40 MG Tablet should be stored below 30°C in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets. Always check the expiry date before using the medication.