Atorec F

ATOREC F Tablet

ATOREC F Tablet, manufactured by EMCURE PHARMACEUTICALS LTD, is a combination medication designed to manage elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It is prescribed in conjunction with a low-fat diet and lifestyle modifications to improve cardiovascular health.

• Composition Each tablet contains two active ingredients:

  • Atorvastatin (10 mg): A statin that works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is essential for cholesterol production in the liver. This reduces total cholesterol and "bad" LDL cholesterol, while also aiding in the breakdown and removal of existing LDL.
  • Fenofibrate (160 mg): This ingredient activates a receptor (PPARα) to increase the breakdown of triglycerides and raise "good" HDL cholesterol levels.

• Uses ATOREC F is used to treat:

  • High cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia).
  • High triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia).
  • Mixed dyslipidemia (abnormal levels of both cholesterol and triglycerides).
  • It also helps reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by managing lipid abnormalities.

• Dosage and Administration The typical dosage is one tablet daily, taken orally. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day for consistent results. The exact dosage and duration will be determined by your doctor based on your condition and response to treatment.

• Side Effects Common side effects may include:

  • Headache
  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Back pain, muscle or joint pain
  • Diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, constipation
  • Increased liver enzymes
  • Increased blood glucose level
  • Insomnia

  Serious side effects, though rare, can include severe muscle pain or weakness (rhabdomyolysis) and liver damage. Consult your doctor if these symptoms occur.

• Precautions

  • Contraindications: Do not take ATOREC F if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have severe liver or kidney disease, gallbladder disease, or are allergic to atorvastatin, fenofibrate, or any other component.
  • Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of liver damage and can raise triglyceride levels.
  • Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have a history of stroke, kidney/liver problems, hypothyroidism, diabetes, or repeated muscle aches/pains.
  • Drug Interactions: Certain medicines, such as immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine), macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), and antiviral medications, can interact with ATOREC F and increase the risk of muscle injury. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
  • Monitoring: Regular liver function tests and monitoring for muscle pain or weakness are advised.

• Storage Store ATOREC F Tablets at room temperature (below 25°C or between 10-30°C). Keep the medicine away from excessive light, heat, moisture, and out of the reach of children and pets.

ATOREC F is a combination medication containing Atorvastatin (10 mg) and Fenofibrate (160 mg), used to manage high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It is manufactured by EMCURE PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

What is ATOREC F used for?

ATOREC F is used to lower high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, especially when lifestyle changes alone have not been effective. By reducing "bad" cholesterol (LDL and VLDL) and triglycerides and increasing "good" cholesterol (HDL), it helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and stroke. This medicine also manages conditions such as primary hypercholesterolemia, mixed dyslipidemia, and hypertriglyceridemia.

How does ATOREC F work?

ATOREC F contains two active ingredients: Atorvastatin and Fenofibrate. Atorvastatin, a statin, works by blocking an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase in the liver, which is essential for cholesterol production. This reduces the body's cholesterol production and helps the liver break down existing LDL cholesterol. Fenofibrate, a fibrate, activates a receptor known as PPARα, leading to an increased breakdown of triglycerides and an increase in HDL ("good") cholesterol production.

What is the usual dosage for ATOREC F?

The recommended dose of ATOREC F is determined by your doctor, based on individual factors such as the severity of your condition and your response to the medicine. It is typically taken orally, once daily, with or without food. It is important to swallow the tablet whole with water and not to crush, chew, or split it. For best results, it should be taken at the same time each day, and you should not change your dosage without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of ATOREC F?

Common side effects of ATOREC F may include headache, stuffy or runny nose, back pain, muscle or joint pain, diarrhea, and nausea. In some cases, abdominal discomfort, elevated liver enzymes, and blurred vision may also occur. Most side effects are temporary and usually resolve upon discontinuing the medicine, but if you experience any serious side effects or a worsening of symptoms, you should consult your doctor. Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include severe allergic reactions, unexplained muscle pain or weakness with fever (rhabdomyolysis), and signs of liver damage such as yellowing of the skin (jaundice).

Is ATOREC F safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, ATOREC F is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is contraindicated for use if you are pregnant or planning to conceive, as studies in animals and humans show that its components (atorvastatin and fenofibrate) can cause significant harm to the growing baby. For women of childbearing potential, it is essential to use a suitable contraceptive method while undergoing therapy with this medicine. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding women due to potential risks to the nursing infant.

Can ATOREC F be taken with other medications?

ATOREC F can interact with certain medications, increasing the risk of side effects. You should always inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, or herbal remedies you are currently taking or might take. Concomitant use with immunosuppressants like cyclosporine, certain antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), and antiviral medications (e.g., protease inhibitors for HIV like lopinavir and ritonavir) can increase the risk of muscle injury. Blood thinners like warfarin may have their action increased when taken with ATOREC F. Medications such as niacin, itraconazole, and certain antibiotics can also cause muscle problems.

What precautions should be taken with ATOREC F?

Several precautions should be taken while on ATOREC F. If you have liver or kidney problems, caution is advised, and your doctor may adjust the dose. Regular liver function tests are necessary to monitor liver health. Diabetic patients should monitor their blood sugar levels closely as the medicine might impact glucose metabolism. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice as it can interfere with the metabolism of atorvastatin and increase the risk of side effects. Limit or avoid alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness immediately, especially if accompanied by fever, as these could be signs of serious conditions.

What happens if a dose of ATOREC F is missed?

If you miss a dose of ATOREC F, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects.

How should ATOREC F be stored?

ATOREC F should be stored at room temperature, ideally below 25°C or 30°C, in a cool and dry place. It should be protected from excessive light, heat, and moisture. Always keep the medicine out of the reach of children and pets.