Lipitor
Elevated cholesterol levels have been linked to heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. One in five Americans has high cholesterol and of these only one in three cases will respond to diet and exercise alone. This is because only 20% of cholesterol comes from our diet. The remainder is produced by our liver. Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium), when added to a diet and exercise plan, can reduce total cholesterol levels by blocking this cholesterol production.
In clinical trials, Lipitor reduced LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) levels by 39 to 60%. It also has been shown to increase HDL (“good” cholesterol) levels and to reduce the risk factors for heart attack and stroke. Lipitor is especially important in lowering risk factors for those who have multiple risk factors such as advanced age, smoking, high blood pressure, low HDL levels, and family histories of heart disease or diabetes.
Like all medications, Lipitor is not appropriate for everyone. Lipitor works to block cholesterol production in the liver. Therefore, those with advanced liver disease should not take Lipitor. Also, since alcohol can impact liver function, excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided. Women who are pregnant should avoid Lipitor use since there is a potential for harm to the fetus. Notify your physician immediately if you believe you have become pregnant while on Lipitor. Do not breast feed while on Lipitor as it may affect the health of your infant. Your medical history and the types of medications you take (including over-the-counter medications) may impact your use of Lipitor and should be discussed with your physician prior to taking Lipitor.
Rarely, Lipitor may cause muscle damage. This muscle damage may cause damage to the kidneys as bi-products are excreted. If you experience muscle weakness, pain or tenderness; or if you develop a fever or severe fatigue, contact your physician before continuing Lipitor treatment. Lipitor has also been associated with rare cases of worsening liver function. Your physician should be notified immediately if you develop darkening of your urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe abdominal pain or vomiting. Other side effects of Lipitor use are generally mild and transient. These may include headache, constipation, diarrhea, gas, indigestion and rash. Contact your physician if you develop any unusual reactions or if your side effects do not reduce over the course of treatment.
Throughout your treatment with Lipitor your physician will periodically have blood drawn to test your liver function and evaluate your cholesterol levels. Your dosage of Lipitor may be adjusted as a result of these tests. Always follow your prescription – never take more or less as it may decrease the effectiveness or result in overdose. While on Lipitor maintain a low-fat diet. Also, you should swallow your Lipitor tablets whole with a glass of water to assure accurate absorption and minimize gastric upset.
When diet and exercise are not enough, Lipitor can help to reduce the risk of life-threatening conditions such as heart attack and stroke. Only your physician can truly evaluate your risks and benefits of Lipitor use. Speak with your physician about any and all concerns you may have with your treatment plan or your cholesterol levels.
