Drug
Uses
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This
medicine is used for those who have abnormally high cholesterol
levels. When taken together with a low-fat diet, this medicine
can effectively reduce LDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as
the “bad” cholesterol, triglyceride levels, and total
cholesterol, while increasing the HDL, or “good”
cholesterol.
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General
Information
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Lipitor also
been shown to result in possible depletion of Coenzyme Q-10,
leading some prescribers to recommend Co Q-10 as a supplement
with Lipitor. Coenzyme Q-10 can be found in most drug stores.
Lipitor works by blocking an enzyme in the liver that is used by
your body to make cholesterol. The result is lower levels of
circulating cholesterol and reduced risk of hardening of the
arteries and plaque accumulation in blood vessel walls.
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How
Taken
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Take the
medicine orally as directed by your doctor. The tablet may be
crushed or split. Better if taken on an empty stomach and before
bedtime, since cholesterol is made in your body at a faster rate
between midnight and 5 a.m. Generally the full-effect will take
2 to 4 weeks, as long as you continue to take the medication as
prescribed on a daily basis.
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Possible
Side Effects
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- Your doctor may also wish to conduct routine blood tests
to check your liver function before and after starting
treatment with this medicine.
- Myalgia (muscle pain)
- constipation
- gas, indigestion
- abdominal pain
- You should notify your doctor if you experience
unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness.
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Warnings/Precautions
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Your doctor
may also wish to conduct routine blood tests to check your liver
function before and after starting treatment with this medicine.
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Drug
Interactions
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Possible drug
interactions include certain other cholesterol-lowering drugs,
some antibiotics, and certain antifungal medications. Ask your
pharmacist if you are taking these types of drugs together.
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Missed
Dose
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| Take
your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your
next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular
schedule. Do not double doses.
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Storage
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| Keep
this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and
out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away
from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away
any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.
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Pregnancy/Nursing
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| This
medicine should not be used during pregnancy. If you suspect
that you may be pregnant, talk to your doctor. For nursing
mothers, it is unknown whether Lipitor is excreted in the breast
milk. It is advised not to breast-feed while taking this
medication.
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