Aztor 40 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

AZTOR 40 MG TABLET

Aztor 40 mg Tablet is a medication manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., primarily used to manage high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It belongs to a class of drugs known as statins.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Aztor 40 Tablet
  • Common Name: Atorvastatin (the active ingredient)

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains Atorvastatin 40 mg.

• Uses: Aztor 40 Tablet is prescribed for:

  • Lowering elevated total cholesterol, "bad" low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, apolipoprotein B (Apo-B), and triglyceride levels.
  • Treatment of hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol levels), hyperlipidemia, and hypertriglyceridemia.
  • Reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, particularly in individuals with existing heart conditions or risk factors.
  • Management of homozygous and heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and mixed dyslipidemia.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Aztor 40 Tablet should be taken as directed by a doctor, typically once daily.
  • It can be taken with or without food, but it is often recommended to take it at the same time each day, preferably at bedtime, for optimal benefits.
  • The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water; do not cut, break, or chew it.
  • Dosage is determined by the healthcare professional based on the patient's condition, age, and response.
  • Children above 10 years of age whose cholesterol is not regulated by physical activity may be prescribed this medicine.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, diarrhea, indigestion, headache, joint pain, muscle pain (myalgia), fatigue (asthenia), flatulence (gas), and constipation.
  • Serious Side Effects (less common): Allergic reactions, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), blurred vision, cough, muscle spasms, breathing difficulty, running nose, joint swelling, back pain, and muscle problems (e.g., rhabdomyolysis).

• Precautions:

  • Contraindications: Do not use if allergic to atorvastatin or any of its components, if you have active liver disease, unexplained persistent elevations of liver enzymes, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Warnings: Use with caution in patients with a history of liver or kidney disease, diabetes (regular blood sugar monitoring is important), hypothyroidism, respiratory failure, or alcohol addiction.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, especially HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir), antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, fusidic acid), as these can interact with Aztor 40 Tablet and increase the risk of side effects.
  • Regular monitoring of liver function tests is recommended during treatment.
  • Not recommended for use in children below 10 years of age.

• Storage:

  • Store Aztor 40 Tablets at a temperature below 30°C (some sources specify between 20°C to 25°C).
  • Keep in a cool, dry place, away from heat, direct sunlight, and moisture.
  • Ensure the medicine is kept out of the reach of children and pets.

What is AZTOR 40 MG TABLET used for?

AZTOR 40 MG TABLET is a lipid-lowering medicine used to treat high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It helps reduce "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides while increasing "good" cholesterol (HDL), thereby lowering the risk of heart diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. It is typically prescribed when diet and lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient.

How does AZTOR 40 MG TABLET work?

AZTOR 40 MG TABLET contains atorvastatin, which belongs to a class of drugs called statins. It works by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver called HMG-CoA reductase, which is crucial for cholesterol production. By blocking this enzyme, it reduces the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver and promotes the removal of LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.

What is the usual dosage of AZTOR 40 MG TABLET?

The dosage of AZTOR 40 MG TABLET is determined by a healthcare professional based on factors such as the patient's age, weight, health condition, and response to treatment. Typically, a single daily dose is recommended. It can be taken with or without food, but it is often advised to take it at a fixed time each day for optimal results, preferably at bedtime.

What are the possible side effects of AZTOR 40 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include nausea, headache, joint pain, muscle pain, diarrhea, indigestion, and fatigue. These effects are usually mild and may resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. More serious, though rare, side effects can include severe muscle injury (rhabdomyolysis), liver problems, and an increase in blood sugar levels. It is important to consult your doctor if side effects persist or worsen.

Is AZTOR 40 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, AZTOR 40 MG TABLET is generally considered unsafe and is not recommended for use during pregnancy, if you are planning a pregnancy, or while breastfeeding. It may harm the developing baby or infant.

Can AZTOR 40 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

AZTOR 40 MG TABLET can interact with several other medications. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking to avoid possible interactions. Specific interactions include certain HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir), hepatitis C medications (e.g., glecaprevir/pibrentasvir), antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, fusidic acid), immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine), antifungals (e.g., itraconazole), and other cholesterol-lowering medicines (e.g., gemfibrozil, niacin). Concomitant use with certain drugs can increase the risk of severe side effects like muscle injury (myopathy or rhabdomyolysis).

What precautions should be taken with AZTOR 40 MG TABLET?

Precautions include informing your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, or a history of muscle disorders. Regular monitoring of liver function and blood sugar levels may be necessary during treatment. Excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can increase the risk of liver problems. Also, avoid consuming large quantities of grapefruit juice (>1.2 liters/day) as it may increase the concentration of the medicine in your blood. Lifestyle modifications such as a low-fat diet and regular exercise are important alongside the medication.

What happens if a dose of AZTOR 40 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the forgotten dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should AZTOR 40 MG TABLET be stored?

AZTOR 40 MG TABLET should be stored at a temperature 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. Do not use expired medicine.