Description
Lipitor (atorvastatin), sold under the brand name Lipitor, is one of the most commonly prescribed statins worldwide. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of hyperlipidemia, mixed dyslipidemia, familial hypercholesterolemia, and cardiovascular disease prevention.
Atorvastatin is available in oral tablet form in strengths of 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg, providing flexible dosing for different patient needs.
How Lipitor (atorvastatin) Works (Mechanism of Action)
Atorvastatin functions by:
-
Inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, the enzyme responsible for cholesterol synthesis in the liver.
-
Reducing LDL-C (bad cholesterol): Lowers plaque buildup in blood vessels.
-
Increasing HDL-C (good cholesterol): Promotes cholesterol clearance from the bloodstream.
-
Lowering triglycerides: Reduces circulating fats that contribute to cardiovascular disease.
Through these actions, atorvastatin helps maintain healthier arteries and reduces the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events.
Medical Uses of Lipitor (atorvastatin)
1. High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)
-
Reduces total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides.
-
Increases protective HDL-C levels.
2. Mixed Dyslipidemia
-
Balances multiple lipid abnormalities simultaneously.
3. Familial Hypercholesterolemia
-
Prescribed to patients with genetically high cholesterol levels, often requiring high-intensity doses.
4. Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
-
Reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and revascularization procedures in patients with risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, or obesity.
5. Atherosclerosis Management
-
Slows down or stabilizes the progression of arterial plaque.
Dosage and Administration Lipitor (atorvastatin)
-
Adults (General Use): Starting dose 10–20 mg once daily.
-
High-Intensity Therapy: 40–80 mg once daily for patients needing major LDL-C reduction.
-
Children (10–17 years with familial hypercholesterolemia): Initial dose 10 mg daily, with adjustments up to 20 mg daily.
-
Maximum Dose: 80 mg/day.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.