Atorvastatin (Lestor) 20mg Film Coated Tablet 100's

Description:
 Used to lower lipids known as cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood when a low fat diet and life style changes on their own have failed.

Product Description:

Atorvastatin (Lestor) 20mg Film-Coated Tablets are a statin-class medication primarily used to treat high cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Atorvastatin works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a key role in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By lowering cholesterol levels, especially LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol, it helps reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events.

Each Lestor 20mg tablet contains 20mg of Atorvastatin and is available in 100 film-coated tablets per pack. This medication is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes dietary changes, exercise, and weight management.

Key Features:

• Active Ingredient: Atorvastatin 20mg per tablet.

• Formulation: Film-coated tablet for oral use.

• Mechanism of Action: Inhibits the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, thereby lowering cholesterol production in the liver.

• Indications: Used to manage high cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risks.

• Packaging: Available in 100 tablets per pack.

Indications:

Atorvastatin (Lestor) 20mg film-coated tablets are indicated for:

1. Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol):

   • Primary hypercholesterolemia (elevated cholesterol levels).

   • Familial hypercholesterolemia (a genetic condition that leads to high cholesterol).

   • Mixed dyslipidemia (a combination of high cholesterol and triglycerides).

2. Cardiovascular Risk Reduction:

   • Prevention of heart attacks in individuals with risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of heart disease.

   • Prevention of strokes in patients at high risk of cardiovascular events.

   • Post-myocardial infarction (heart attack): To reduce the risk of further heart attacks or strokes in patients who have already had one.

   • Angina (chest pain): To reduce the frequency of chest pain or other related cardiovascular events.

   • Stroke prevention in patients with a high risk of stroke.

Dosage:

The dosage of Atorvastatin (Lestor) 20mg tablets depends on the patient's medical condition, cholesterol levels, and response to treatment. The following are general dosing guidelines:

• Adults:

  • Initial dose: The typical starting dose is 10-20mg once daily.

  • Maintenance dose: The dose can be adjusted between 10mg to 80mg once daily based on the individual's cholesterol levels and treatment goals.

• Children (10 to 17 years): 10mg to 20mg once daily is usually prescribed, depending on cholesterol levels.

Administration:

• Take orally, with or without food.

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not chew or crush the tablet.

• Take at the same time every day to help remember your dose.

Side Effects:

While Atorvastatin (Lestor) is generally well tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects. Common side effects include:

• Musculoskeletal issues:

  • Muscle pain, cramps, or weakness (myopathy).

• Gastrointestinal issues:

  • Constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, or indigestion.

• Liver effects:

  • Elevated liver enzymes (which may indicate liver dysfunction).

More serious, though rare, side effects include:

• Rhabdomyolysis: A severe breakdown of muscle tissue that can lead to kidney damage. Symptoms include severe muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by dark-colored urine.

• Liver damage: Symptoms of liver problems include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, and upper abdominal pain.

• Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, rash, or difficulty breathing.

• Memory loss or confusion (reported in some patients).

If you experience any of these serious side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Contraindications:

Atorvastatin (Lestor) 20mg tablets should not be used in the following situations:

1. Hypersensitivity (allergic reaction) to Atorvastatin or any of its ingredients.

2. Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevation of liver enzymes.

3. Pregnancy: Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Women should not use Atorvastatin during pregnancy and should stop the medication if they become pregnant.

4. Breastfeeding: Atorvastatin is contraindicated during breastfeeding as it can pass into breast milk and harm the baby.

5. Severe kidney impairment: In patients with severe kidney dysfunction, Atorvastatin should be used with caution and adjusted based on renal function.

Warnings and Precautions:

• Liver function: Atorvastatin may cause liver enzyme elevations. Liver function tests should be conducted before starting treatment and periodically during treatment.

• Muscle issues: Monitor for signs of muscle pain, weakness, or cramps. If these occur, contact a healthcare provider, as this may indicate muscle damage (myopathy) or, in rare cases, rhabdomyolysis.

• Pregnancy: Atorvastatin should not be taken during pregnancy. If pregnancy is planned or suspected, stop taking Atorvastatin immediately and consult a doctor.

• Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol use can increase the risk of liver damage, so it is recommended to limit alcohol consumption while on Atorvastatin.

• Kidney disease: Use caution in patients with pre-existing kidney problems.

• Diabetes: Statins, including Atorvastatin, may increase blood sugar levels and lead to the development of type 2 diabetes in susceptible individuals. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended.

Drug Interactions:

Atorvastatin (Lestor) 20mg tablets may interact with other medications, including:

• Other cholesterol-lowering medications: Gemfibrozil, fenofibrate, or other fibrates, when used with Atorvastatin, may increase the risk of muscle-related side effects.

• Cyclosporine: The combination of Atorvastatin with Cyclosporine (used to suppress the immune system) may increase the concentration of Atorvastatin, leading to an increased risk of side effects.

• Certain antibiotics and antifungals: Medications like clarithromycin, erythromycin, itraconazole, or ketoconazole may increase the concentration of Atorvastatin in the blood.

• Warfarin: Statins may increase the effect of Warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Regular monitoring of INR (International Normalized Ratio) is recommended.

• Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit can increase the blood levels of Atorvastatin and should be consumed in moderation or avoided.

Storage:

• Store Atorvastatin (Lestor) at room temperature (15°C to 30°C).

• Keep in a dry place away from light and moisture.

• Keep out of reach of children.

Conclusion:

Atorvastatin (Lestor) 20mg film-coated tablets are an effective treatment option for individuals with high cholesterol and those at risk of cardiovascular events. By lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol and raising HDL ("good") cholesterol, Atorvastatin helps reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other related conditions. However, it is important to monitor liver function and muscle health during treatment. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid this medication. Always follow the prescribed dosage and report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider.