HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. Adjunct to diet in treatment of hypercholesterolaemia; hypertension with multiple CHD risks.

Drug Name:

ATORVASTATIN CALCIUM

Precautions:

Hepatic dysfunction (monitor liver function); excessive alcohol intake; myopathy (monitor CK); hepatic disease, haemorrhagic stroke history; rhabdomyolysis risk factors eg severe acute infection, hypotension, major surgery, trauma, severe metabolic, endocrine, electrolyte disorders, uncontrolled seizures

Adverse Reactions:

Rhabdomyolysis; myopathy; myalgia; GI upset; headache; asthenia; insomnia; rash; neuropathy; raised LFTs; others, Ask your Phamacist for more details

Interactions:

Digoxin; OCs (norethindrone + ethinyloestradiol); antacids; fibric acid derivatives; nicotinic acid; CYP3A4 inhibitors (eg erythromycin, clarithromycin, protease inhibitors, grapefruit juice (esp > 1.2 L/day), cyclosporin, azole antifungals), inducers (eg efavirenz, rifampicin, phenytoin); immunosuppressives; colestipol; diltiazem; steroid hormone lowering agents incl ketoconazole, spironolactone, cimetidine; lab tests incl LFTs, CK

Dose:

Individualise dosage; 10-80 mg once daily; may adjust dosage after 4 wks