Precautions and Warnings With Atorvastatin

Precautions and warnings with atorvastatin include avoiding grapefruit and grapefruit products while on the medication. Atorvastatin may interact with several different drugs -- be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medicine you take. If you are pregnant or nursing, you should not take atorvastatin. Other precautions and warnings with atorvastatin involve rare but serious muscle problems that may develop while taking the drug. If you experience muscle aches, pains, or weakness -- especially with a fever or illness -- contact your healthcare provider right away.

 

Precautions and Warnings With Atorvastatin: An Introduction

 Atorvastatin calcium ("atorvastatin") is a prescription drug marketed under the name Lipitor®. It is used to treat high cholesterol and other conditions related to heart disease. Before you start taking atorvastatin, let your doctor know if you have:
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
 
  • Are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant
  • Are breastfeeding
  • Will be undergoing a procedure or surgery
  • Drink alcohol frequently.
     
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, antacids, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
Finally, make sure to contact your healthcare provider immediately, if you experience any muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness, especially if you feel ill or have a fever.
 
(Precautions and Warnings With Atorvastatin Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;