Atorvastatin Dosing (Cont.)

Atorvastatin Dosing for Children

Atorvastatin dosing guidelines for children (ages 10 to 17) with high cholesterol generally recommend a starting dose of atorvastatin 10 mg once a day. If your child does not reach his or her cholesterol goal on the starting atorvastatin dosage, your healthcare provider may choose to increase the dose. He or she may decrease the dose of atorvastatin if side effects occur. The maximum daily dosage for children is atorvastatin 20 mg.
 

When and How to Take Your Atorvastatin Dosage

If you are taking atorvastatin, keep the following in mind:
 
  • You can take your atorvastatin medication at any time of day; however, you should take it at the same time each day. This will help maintain an even level of atorvastatin in your system.
     
  • You may take your atorvastatin dosage with or without food.
     
  • Do not break, chew, or crush the atorvastatin tablets.
     
  • For atorvastatin to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. Atorvastatin will not work if you stop taking it.
     

Atorvastatin Dosing: Final Thoughts

Remember that lowering cholesterol begins with lifestyle changes (such as weight loss, diet, and exercise). If lifestyle changes alone do not lower cholesterol to a desirable level, cholesterol medication, such as atorvastatin, may be necessary. Even if you are taking cholesterol-lowering medication, lifestyle changes are still important for maintaining a good cholesterol level.
 
If you are unsure about anything related to atorvastatin dosing, please talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Do not stop taking atorvastatin without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;