Atorvastatin is popularly used drug for reducing cholesterol. The medicine is often take with a strict dietary and exercise regime for this. The drug belongs to the class of special medications known as the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins).

Dosage
Initially: 10 mg daily. May be increased up to 80 mg once daily

Working
Atorvastatin acts by competitively inhibiting 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl co-enzyme A (HMGCoA) reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis. It works by reducing the production of cholesterol in the body.

Contra- Indications: Hypersensitivity, active liver disease, Pregnancy and lactation

Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in different ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are often associated with the drug:

• GI effects like abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
• Insomnia
• Anorexia
• Headache
• Chest pain
• Impotence

Brands