Generic Lipitor

ATORVASTATIN - ORAL

Uses:
Atorvastatin is used to lower cholesterol and fats in the blood to help prevent heart attacks and strokes.

How to Take:
Lipitor may be taken with or without meals, usually once daily. It may take a few weeks to months before the full effects of Lipitor are noticed.

Side Effects:
Overall Lipitor is generally well tolerated. Diarrhea or constipation or stomach pain may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report: muscle pain/tenderness/weakness, aches, fever. Very unlikely but report: yellowing of eyes or skin, vomiting, vision problems, chest pain, black stools. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:
Before taking atorvastatin tell your doctor if you have: liver disease, a severe infection, heart disease, thyroid problems, uncontrolled seizures, recent major surgery, low blood pressure, any allergies, other medical problems. If Lipitor makes you dizzy or lightheaded, use caution driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake as this can damage the liver and cause increased side effects. Atorvastatin should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Lipitor may be excreted into breast milk. Because of the possible adverse effects to the infant, breast-feeding is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: clofibrate, cyclosporine, erythromycin, gemfibrozil, niacin (nicotinic acid), azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), antacids (e.g., Maalox, Mylanta), digoxin, birth control pills, protease inhibitors (e.g., indinavir). Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes:
Your doctor may periodically perform lab tests during treatment to monitor your progress. For best results, exercise regularly and follow a doctor- approved, low-fat, low-cholesterol diet.

Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the doses.

Storage:
Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (between 20 and 25 degrees C) away from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom.