Atorvastatin

dr.joan

5. Atorvastatin:
Trade name: Lipitor
Class: Antihyperlipidemic Statins
Pregnancy: (Category X)

Action: lowers the level of cholesterol in the blood by reducing the production of cholesterol by the liver.
Uses:
· Preventing and treating atherosclerosis.
Dose
Primary hypercholesterolemia and combined hyperlipidaemia, usually 10 mg once daily
Familial hypercholesterolemia, initially 10 mg daily, increased at intervals of at least 4 weeks to 40 mg once daily; if necessary, further increased to max. 80 mg once daily



Contraindications:
· Allergy to atorvastatin, fungal byproducts, active liver disease or unexplained and persistent elevations of transaminase levels, pregnancy, lactation.
· Use cautiously with impaired endocrine function
Side effects:
· CNS: Headache, asthenia
· GI: Flatulence, abdominal pain, cramps, constipation, nausea, dyspepsia, heartburn, liver failure
· Respiratory: Sinusitis, pharyngitis.
· Other: Rhabdomyolysis with acute renal failure, arthralgia, myalgia
Nursing considerations:

• Obtain liver function tests as a baseline and periodically during therapy.
• Withhold atorvastatin in any acute, serious condition (severe infection, hypotension, major surgery, trauma, severe metabolic or endocrine disorder, seizures)
• Ensure that patient has tried cholesterol-lowering diet regimen for 3---6 mo before beginning therapy.
• Administer drug without regard to food, but at same time each day.
• Consult dietitian regarding low-cholesterol diets.
• Ensure that patient is not pregnant and has appropriate contraceptives available during therapy; serious fetal damage has been associated with this drug.