DESCRIPTION
WHAT IS THIS MEDICINE?
ATORVASTATIN is known as a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor or ‘statin’. It lowers the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. This drug may also reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or other health problems in patients with risk factors for heart disease. Diet and lifestyle changes are often used with this drug.

WHAT SHOULD I TELL MY HEALTH CARE PROVIDER BEFORE I TAKE THIS MEDICINE?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

frequently drink alcoholic beverages
history of stroke, TIA
kidney disease
liver disease
muscle aches or weakness
other medical condition
an unusual or allergic reaction to atorvastatin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
HOW SHOULD I USE THIS MEDICINE?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. You can take this medicine with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 10 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

WHAT IF I MISS A DOSE?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

WHAT MAY INTERACT WITH THIS MEDICINE?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

medicines for fungal infections like itraconazole, voriconazole
other medicines for high cholesterol
red yeast rice
telithromycin
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

alcohol
antacids
birth control pills
certain antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin, troleandomycin
cyclosporine
digoxin
diltiazem
fluconazole
grapefruit juice
imatinib, STI-571
ketoconazole
medicines for treating HIV infection
nefazodone
verapamil
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

WHAT SHOULD I WATCH FOR WHILE USING THIS MEDICINE?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check-ups. You may need regular tests to make sure your liver is working properly.

Tell your doctor or health care professional right away if you get any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if you also have a fever and tiredness.

This drug is only part of a total heart-health program. Your doctor or a dietician can suggest a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet to help. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule.

Do not use this drug if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Serious side effects to an unborn child or to an infant are possible. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

If you are going to have surgery tell your health care professional that you are taking this drug.

WHAT SIDE EFFECTS MAY I NOTICE FROM THIS MEDICINE?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
dark urine
fever
joint pain
muscle cramps, pain
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
unusually weak or tired
yellowing of eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

constipation
heartburn
stomach gas, pain, upset
This list may not describe all possible side effects.

WHERE SHOULD I KEEP MY MEDICINE?
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.