Atorvastatin is one of the drugs used as treatment to reduce the high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides . Although, it is a medication that has the approval of the health authorities.
Specifically, Atorvastatin is part of the drugs known as statins, whose purpose is to reduce the levels of lipids (fats) in the body. Thus, both cholesterol and triglycerides are considered two important lipids.
It must be taken into account that in the event of high cholesterol levels, it is usual for your doctor to establish an initial treatment based on a specific diet and an increase in physical activity on a regular basis.
However, when this low-fat diet and lifestyle changes fail, your doctor will indicate the intake of certain medications; among which is Atorvastatin.
In addition, this drug is also indicated for people who have a high risk of heart disease, even if cholesterol levels are in a normal state.
The AEMPS notice about taking Atorvastatin
The Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) recalls the importance of carrying out a treatment safely as far as the intake of this medicine is concerned.
CholesterolFirst, we must be clear that to take Atorvastatin safely it is necessary to follow the administration indications explained by a medical specialist. In this way, possible side effects are minimized.
In this sense, the AEMPS advises on its website how to use this medication to take it safely. In addition, remember that before starting treatment it is usual for your doctor to put you on a low cholesterol diet, which is mandatory for the drug to achieve the desired effect.
According to the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS), the initial dose of Atorvastatin in adults and children from 10 years must be 10 mg per day. However, a maximum dose of 80 mg per day should not be exceeded.
Your doctor will have the power to increase the initial dose if the patient's conditions require it. The normal thing is that the treatment is established in an interval of 4 weeks or more, according to the criteria of your doctor.
On the other hand, the tablets of this medication must be swallowed whole. The patient can be helped with a glass of water. Thus, the experts of the AEMPS explain that it can be taken at any time of the day with and without food; although it is appropriate to always take the tablet at the same time each day.
Warnings and Cautions
Atorvastatin is generally a safe drug. However, from the AEMPS they explain that there are a series of situations in which people should not take this type of medication to reduce cholesterol levels.
People allergic to Atorvastatin or any of its components should not take this medicine. Nor if you have or have had any disease that affects the liver, or if you have or have had unjustified abnormal results in blood tests of liver function.
This medicine is not indicated for women who intend to become pregnant, during pregnancy or during lactation.
