Atocor 80 Mg Tablet (14 Tab)

ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET (14 TAB) by DR. REDDYS LABORATORIES LTD.

Name

Brand Name: Atocor 80 Tablet Common Name: Atorvastatin (as an 80 mg tablet)

Composition

Active Ingredient: Atorvastatin 80 mg

Uses

Atocor 80 Tablet is primarily used to manage high cholesterol levels, including hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia. It works by reducing "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, while increasing "good" cholesterol (HDL). This action helps to prevent serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes, especially in individuals with coronary heart disease or type 2 diabetes. It can also be prescribed for people with a family history of raised cholesterol in coronary heart disease or certain long-term health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Dosage and Administration

The tablet should be swallowed whole with water, and not chewed, crushed, or broken. It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day to maintain consistent effectiveness. Dosage is determined by a physician based on the individual's condition and response to treatment. Regular monitoring of lipid profiles is recommended. It is crucial not to exceed the prescribed dose.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea or loose and watery stools
• Constipation
• Muscle pain or spasms
• Joint pain or swelling
• Back pain
• Fatigue/Weakness
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Common cold symptoms
• Urinary tract infection

Serious Side Effects (Consult a doctor immediately if experienced):

• Allergic reactions
• Hyperglycemia (excess glucose in the bloodstream)
• Blurred vision
• Signs of liver problems such as stomach pains, unusually dark urine, or yellowing of skin or eyes
• Severe muscle weakness or pain, which could indicate myopathy or rhabdomyolysis
• Memory loss (rare)

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Atorvastatin or any other components of the tablet.
• Liver/Kidney Conditions: Exercise caution and inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, as the medicine may affect liver function and could worsen kidney conditions. Regular liver enzyme tests are recommended.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Atocor 80 Tablet is contraindicated during pregnancy and is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers due to potential adverse effects on nursing infants.
• Diabetes: Atorvastatin may slightly increase blood sugar levels, so diabetic patients should monitor their glucose levels closely.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid alcohol intake as it can increase the risk of liver problems and worsen side effects.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, or herbal supplements you are taking. Interactions can occur with immune system affecting medicines (e.g., cyclosporine), anti-HIV medicines (e.g., lopinavir, ritonavir, atazanavir), anti-Hepatitis C medicines (e.g., glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, telaprevir), anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), and certain painkillers (e.g., phenazone).
• Children: Not recommended for children below 10 years of age.
• Lifestyle: Atocor 80 Tablet is part of a comprehensive treatment program that should include a healthy, low-fat diet, regular exercise, and weight reduction. Avoid high-fat foods and smoking.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C. Keep the medicine shielded from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and moisture. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions about ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET (Atorvastatin):

What is ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET used for?

ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET is primarily used to lower high cholesterol levels and triglycerides (fats) in the blood. It helps reduce the risk of serious heart complications such as heart attacks and strokes. It can also be prescribed for individuals with a family history of high cholesterol, or those with conditions like type 1 or type 2 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, to help manage their cardiovascular risk.

How does ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET work?

ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET contains Atorvastatin, which belongs to a class of medicines called statins. It works by blocking an enzyme in the liver called HMG-CoA reductase, which is crucial for cholesterol production. By inhibiting this enzyme, Atorvastatin effectively reduces the amount of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides in the blood, while also increasing levels of "good" cholesterol (HDL).

What is the usual dosage for ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET?

The usual starting dose of Atorvastatin for adults and children aged 10 years or older is typically 10 mg once a day. This dose may be adjusted by your doctor based on your response and needs, with a maximum dose of 80 mg once daily. It can be taken with or without food, but it's important to try and take it at the same time each day for optimal benefit.

What are the possible side effects of ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include muscle pain, headache, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, and joint pain. Some individuals may also experience fatigue or cold-like symptoms. More serious, but less common, side effects include severe muscle injury (rhabdomyolysis), which can lead to kidney problems, and liver problems. It may also slightly increase blood sugar levels. If you experience unusual muscle pain, weakness, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or severe fatigue, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Is ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy (Category X), as studies have shown potential fetal abnormalities. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding mothers, as it has the potential to cause adverse effects in nursing infants, although some limited evidence suggests minimal transfer into breast milk. It's crucial to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET can interact with several medications. You should inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking. Particular caution is needed with immune system-affecting medicines (like cyclosporine), certain anti-HIV medicines (lopinavir, ritonavir, atazanavir, indinavir), anti-HCV medicines (telaprevir, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir), certain antibiotics (erythromycin, clarithromycin), antifungals (ketoconazole, itraconazole), and other cholesterol-lowering medicines (fenofibrate, niacin, mipomersen).

What precautions should be taken while taking ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET?

Before starting ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, liver disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, severe lung disease, or muscle disorders. Regular monitoring of your lipid profile and liver enzyme tests may be recommended by your doctor. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a low-fat diet, regular exercise, weight management, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, to get the most benefit from this medicine. Avoid or limit consuming grapefruit juice.

What happens if a dose of ATOCOR 80 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 missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

How should ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET be stored?

ATOCOR 80 MG TABLET should be stored in a cool, dry place, ideally below 30°C. Keep it away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and moisture. Always ensure the medicine is kept out of the sight and reach of children.