Atormac 20 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

ATORMAC 20 MG TABLET

ATORMAC 20 MG TABLET, manufactured by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD., is a widely prescribed medication belonging to the class of drugs known as statins.

• Name:
  • Brand Name: ATORMAC 20 MG TABLET
  • Common Name: Atorvastatin
• Composition:
  • Each film-coated tablet contains Atorvastatin 20 mg.
• Uses: ATORMAC 20 MG TABLET is primarily used to manage and treat:
  • High cholesterol levels (hyperlipidemia), including primary hypercholesterolemia, heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, nonfamilial hypercholesterolemia, and homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.
  • Elevated triglyceride levels and mixed dyslipidemia.
  • It works by reducing "bad" low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing "good" high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
  • This action helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and the need for revascularization procedures, even in patients with normal cholesterol levels but an increased risk of heart disease.
• Dosage and Administration:
  • Adults: The typical starting dose is 10 mg or 20 mg once daily. The dose may be adjusted at intervals of 4 weeks or more, up to a maximum of 80 mg per day, based on the patient's response and cholesterol levels.
  • Children (10-17 years with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia): The recommended starting dose is 10 mg once daily, which may be increased at intervals of at least 4 weeks to a maximum of 20 mg per day.
  • The tablet can be taken orally at any time of the day, with or without food, but it is advisable to take it at approximately the same time each day to maintain consistency.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew it.
• Side Effects:
  • Common Side Effects: Headache, diarrhea, stomach upset, nausea, indigestion, muscle pain, tenderness, fatigue, tiredness, common cold symptoms (e.g., sore throat, runny nose, sneezing), joint pain (arthralgia), pain in extremities, and urinary tract infection.
  • Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if experienced): Severe muscle pain or weakness (which could indicate rhabdomyolysis), symptoms of liver problems (e.g., yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusually dark urine, severe stomach pains), and allergic reactions (e.g., skin rash, itching, swelling of the face/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing).
• Precautions:
  • Contraindications: ATORMAC 20 MG TABLET is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is also contraindicated in patients with active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases, and in individuals with a known allergy to atorvastatin or any other ingredients of the tablet.
  • Warnings: Use with caution in patients with a history of liver problems, kidney disease, diabetes (requiring regular monitoring of blood sugar levels), hypothyroidism, and cognitive impairment.
  • Interactions: Avoid excessive consumption of grapefruit juice as it may increase the levels of atorvastatin in the blood. Alcohol consumption should be discussed with a doctor. Inform your doctor about all other medications being taken, especially other cholesterol-lowering drugs, anticoagulants, cyclosporine, macrolide antibiotics, HIV protease inhibitors, antifungal medications, digoxin, and antidiabetic medications, as interactions may occur.
  • Regular monitoring of cholesterol levels and liver function tests is crucial during treatment.
• Storage: Store ATORMAC 20 MG TABLET at room temperature, ideally between 20°C-25°C (below 30°C), away from excessive heat and direct light. Keep out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

Here are frequently asked questions about ATORMAC 20 MG TABLET:

What is Atormac 20 MG Tablet used for?

Atormac 20 MG Tablet is a statin medication used to lower high levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) and triglycerides in the blood, while also increasing "good" cholesterol (HDL cholesterol). This helps to reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

How does Atormac 20 MG Tablet work?

Atormac 20 MG Tablet contains atorvastatin, which works by blocking an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme is crucial for the liver to produce cholesterol. By inhibiting this enzyme, atorvastatin effectively reduces the amount of cholesterol made in the body, particularly LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

What is the usual dosage for Atormac 20 MG Tablet?

For adults, the typical starting dose is 10 or 20 mg once daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose at intervals of four weeks or more, with a maximum dose of 80 mg per day. For children aged 10-17 years with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, the starting dose is usually 10 mg once daily, which can be increased up to a maximum of 20 mg per day. It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day.

What are the possible side effects of Atormac 20 MG Tablet?

Common side effects include headache, nausea, indigestion, constipation, flatulence, diarrhea, joint pain, muscle pain, and symptoms similar to a common cold (sore throat, runny nose, sneezing). More serious, but rare, side effects can include muscle weakness or pain (rhabdomyolysis) and liver problems. It's important to contact your doctor if you experience severe muscle pain or weakness, or signs of liver problems such as yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Is Atormac 20 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, Atormac 20 MG Tablet is considered highly unsafe and is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It may cause harm to the developing baby.

Can Atormac 20 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

Atormac 20 MG Tablet can interact with several medications. These include immunosuppressive agents like cyclosporine, certain antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin), antifungal medicines (e.g., itraconazole), other lipid-lowering drugs (e.g., gemfibrozil, niacin), and some anti-HIV medications (e.g., lopinavir, ritonavir, atazanavir). It's crucial to inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Grapefruit juice can also interact with this medication and should be avoided.

What precautions should be taken while taking Atormac 20 MG Tablet?

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase the risk of liver problems and worsen side effects. If you have diabetes, your blood sugar levels should be monitored regularly as Atormac 20 MG Tablet may cause an increase in blood sugar. Caution is advised for patients with liver or kidney disease. Report any unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness to your doctor immediately. This medication is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that should also include a healthy, low-fat diet and regular exercise.

What happens if a dose of Atormac 20 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 a missed one.

How should Atormac 20 MG Tablet be stored?

Atormac 20 MG Tablet should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 20°C-25°C, away from heat and direct light. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children and pets.