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HOW IT WORKS
Cholesterol management made easy—all from your phone
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Our smarter, faster, virtual intake process gets your doctors the info they need to care for the whole you.
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Text us when you’re free—we make ourselves available day and night. For virtual check-ins, refills, and more.
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LIPITOR (ATORVASTATIN) FAQs
What is Lipitor?
Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a statin drug that is prescribed to help treat high cholesterol levels. It is known as an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor because it blocks a specific substance in the liver that makes cholesterol. By reducing how much cholesterol the liver makes, atorvastatin helps to prevent the build-up of cholesterol plaques in artery walls, known as atherosclerosis. This condition can cause a heart attack or stroke because cholesterol plaque blocks blood flow to the brain, heart, and other important arteries in the body.
Atorvastatin is a first-line medication for treating people with elevated cholesterol and heart disease. It is also prescribed for people who may be at higher risk for heart disease and stroke, such as those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It may also be used for treating angina (chest pain relating to heart disease).
Atorvastatin was first approved by the FDA in 1996 and is now one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the U.S.
How does Lipitor work?
Atorvastatin stops the liver from making cholesterol, which can lead to decreased levels in the body. It also increases LDL cholesterol receptors in liver cells, which removes more of them from circulation. LDL is sometimes referred to as the “bad” cholesterol since it is the type that can become oxidized and lead to plaque formation in arteries.
Not only can atorvastatin reduce LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol levels, but it also helps to increase HDL (the “good” cholesterol) and decrease triglycerides.
What are the dosages for Lipitor?
Atorvastatin is available as a generic and as the brand name Lipitor. It comes in tablet strengths of 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg.
Atorvastatin is usually prescribed to patients based on their current cholesterol levels and risk profile. Patients who require moderate cholesterol treatment are prescribed 10-20 mg per day, with the eventual therapy goal of reducing LDL cholesterol by 30-50%. People who need more intense cholesterol interventions are prescribed 40-80 mg per day, with the therapeutic goal of lowering LDL cholesterol by more than 50%.
Adults can take atorvastatin with or without food, but the medication should be taken at the same time each day. Most healthcare providers recommend taking atorvastatin and other statin drugs before bed since the liver produces more cholesterol at night while you sleep.
Common side effects of Lipitor
Atorvastatin, like most other statins, can cause some common side effects:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Heartburn
- Joint pain
- Gas
- Confusion
- Forgetfulness
- Muscle cramps
- Weakness
- Headache
If you feel severe muscle cramps, weakness or have dark urine, be seen in person ASAP.
What is Lipitor used for?
Atorvastatin is used to treat high cholesterol and heart disease, along with dietary changes, weight loss, and regular exercise. Atorvastatin is not effective on its own in reducing these risks but supports lifestyle efforts.
Atorvastatin is also used to lower cholesterol in those who may be at higher risk for heart disease or stroke, such as people who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It can also treat people who have an inherited condition known as familial heterozygous hypercholesterolemia, a disorder that prevents the body from removing cholesterol.
Considerations and precautions of Lipitor
Atorvastatin is not the best medication for everyone. Anyone who is allergic or sensitive to ingredients in atorvastatin should not take it.
Some people may experience more risks than benefits from atorvastatin. If any of the following are true for you, ensure that your healthcare provider and pharmacist know before prescribing atorvastatin for you. Atorvastatin may not be a safe medication for you if:
- You have liver disease
- You are pregnant or may become pregnant
- You are breastfeeding
Do you need a prescription for Lipitor?
Atorvastatin is not available over-the-counter. You need a prescription from a healthcare provider for any type of statin, including Lipitor.
Effectiveness
Atorvastatin is the most commonly prescribed statin. Because it has been in use for so long, there is a lot of research on both safety and effectiveness. Many healthcare providers trust Lipitor because it can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by as much as 60%. Even for people who do not have high cholesterol, atorvastatin can be an effective prescription medication for reducing future heart disease, heart attack, and stroke risks.
While most statins work similarly, they are not the exact same drug and cannot be swapped. Atorvastatin is the most prescribed medication for a reason—because it has proven to be not only effective, but generally well tolerated by most patients.
Atorvastatin does not replace the need for a heart-healthy diet and regular exercise. But for people who cannot lower cholesterol levels with diet and lifestyle alone, atorvastatin can have a major impact on reducing health risks.
Can you buy Lipitor online?
Atorvastatin is available from most pharmacies, including those that offer online prescription refill services. Your medical provider can send the prescription, and you’ll receive it shipped to your door, usually within a few days. Many online pharmacies offer additional savings or free shipping.
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