Atorlip 10

Atorlip 10 contains atorvastatin calcium, a potent HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, designed to significantly reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglyceride levels while elevating high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. This medication is indicated as an adjunct to diet and lifestyle modifications in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia. Clinical evidence supports its role in reducing the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and revascularization procedures in individuals with multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Proper administration under medical supervision ensures optimal therapeutic outcomes with minimized adverse effects.

Features

• Active ingredient: Atorvastatin calcium 10 mg
• Pharmaceutical form: Film-coated tablets
• Mechanism: Selective, competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase
• Bioavailability: Approximately 14%
• Protein binding: ≥98%
• Metabolism: Hepatic via CYP3A4
• Elimination half-life: 14 hours
• Excretion: Primarily biliary

Benefits

• Achieves up to 50% reduction in LDL cholesterol levels with 10 mg daily dosing
• Lowers triglyceride concentrations by 20–40% in most patients
• Moderately increases HDL cholesterol by 5–10%
• Reduces cardiovascular event risk through plaque stabilization and improved endothelial function
• Demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects independent of lipid-lowering activity
• Provides 24-hour coverage with once-daily dosing convenience

Common use

Atorlip 10 is primarily prescribed for the management of dyslipidemias, including heterozygous familial and non-familial hypercholesterolemia, and combined mixed dyslipidemia. It is utilized as secondary prevention in patients with established cardiovascular disease to reduce the risk of non-fatal myocardial infarction, fatal and non-fatal stroke, and revascularization procedures. The medication may be used concomitantly with other lipid-lowering therapies in cases of severe hypercholesterolemia that remains uncontrolled with monotherapy.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dose is 10 mg or 20 mg once daily, with adjustments made at intervals of 2–4 weeks based on lipid response and tolerability. Maximum dose should not exceed 80 mg daily. Administration may occur at any time of day, with or without food, though consistency in timing is recommended. Dosage requires reduction in patients with hepatic impairment or those taking concomitant CYP3A4 inhibitors. Renal impairment does not typically require dosage adjustment. Therapy should continue indefinitely unless contraindications develop or significant adverse effects occur.

Precautions

Liver function tests must be performed before initiation, at 12 weeks following initiation or dose elevation, and periodically thereafter. Discontinue if persistent elevations in transaminases exceed 3 times the upper limit of normal. Monitor for muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly with unexplained fatigue or fever. Assess creatine kinase levels if symptoms develop. Use caution in patients consuming substantial quantities of alcohol or with history of liver disease. May cause elevated HbA1c and fasting serum glucose levels. Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Contraindications

Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases exceeding three times the upper limit of normal. Hypersensitivity to any component of this medication. Pregnancy, lactation, and women of childbearing potential not using adequate contraception. Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors including itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole, HIV protease inhibitors, boceprevir, telaprevir, erythromycin, clarithromycin, telithromycin, nefazodone, and cobicistat-containing products.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions (≥2% and more frequent than placebo) include nasopharyngitis, arthralgia, diarrhea, pain in extremity, and urinary tract infection. Musculoskeletal events may include myalgia (5%), arthralgia (3%), muscle spasms (2%), and back pain (2%). Gastrointestinal disturbances include diarrhea (3%), nausea (2%), and dyspepsia (2%). Rare but serious side effects include rhabdomyolysis with renal dysfunction, hepatotoxicity, immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy, and hemorrhagic stroke. Approximately 1% of patients discontinue therapy due to adverse effects.

Drug interaction

Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors increase atorvastatin exposure approximately 3-fold. Cyclosporine increases AUC up to 7-fold. Gemfibrozil and other fibrates increase risk of myopathy. Niacin (≥1 g/day) may increase risk of skeletal muscle effects. Oral contraceptives containing norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol show increased AUC. Digoxin concentrations may increase approximately 20%. Colchicine may enhance myopathic potential. Warfarin may show enhanced anticoagulant effect requiring INR monitoring. Rifampin and other CYP3A4 inducers decrease atorvastatin concentrations.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose. Resume regular dosing schedule with the next dose. Consistent daily administration provides optimal lipid-lowering effects, though occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact long-term cholesterol control. Maintain dietary and lifestyle modifications regardless of dosing regularity.

Overdose

No specific antidote exists for atorvastatin overdose. Suspected overdose requires supportive measures with attention to liver function and possible musculoskeletal effects. Gastric lavage may be considered if performed soon after ingestion. Activated charcoal may be effective if administered within one hour of ingestion. Monitor for signs and symptoms of rhabdomyolysis, including myoglobinuria and renal impairment. Provide supportive care including hydration and monitoring of creatine kinase, renal function, and liver enzymes. Hemodialysis is unlikely to be beneficial due to extensive protein binding.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 20°C–25°C (68°F–77°F) with excursions permitted between 15°C–30°C (59°F–86°F). Keep container tightly closed and protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging. Properly dispose of unused medication through take-back programs or according to local regulations. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour into drain unless instructed to do so.

Disclaimer

This information does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information contained herein. The content provided is for informational purposes only and reflects data available at the time of preparation. Individual patient responses may vary based on genetic factors, concomitant medications, and underlying health conditions.

Reviews

Clinical trials demonstrate 10 mg atorvastatin produces mean LDL-C reductions of 39% in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia. The ASCOT-LLA study showed 36% reduction in fatal and non-fatal coronary events in hypertensive patients with additional risk factors. TNT trial data indicates consistent efficacy in cardiovascular risk reduction across diverse patient populations. Real-world evidence supports long-term tolerability with discontinuation rates below 2% annually due to adverse effects. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate high adherence rates related to once-daily dosing and measurable lipid improvements.