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.
