Atorvastatin

Definition

Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. It works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis in the liver.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Atorvastatin is commonly prescribed for patients with hypercholesterolemia and mixed dyslipidemia.
2. It helps increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) while lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglycerides.
3. Patients taking atorvastatin should have their liver function monitored regularly due to potential hepatotoxicity.
4. Common side effects include muscle pain, fatigue, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
5. Atorvastatin can interact with other medications such as certain antibiotics and antifungals, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.

Review Questions

• What enzyme does atorvastatin inhibit to lower cholesterol levels?
• What are common side effects associated with atorvastatin?
• Why is it important to monitor liver function in patients taking atorvastatin?

Related terms

Simvastatin: Another statin medication used to lower cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase.

Hypercholesterolemia: A condition characterized by high levels of cholesterol in the blood.

PCSK9 Inhibitors: A class of drugs that lower LDL cholesterol by inhibiting the protein PCSK9.