What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking atorvastatin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to this medication, to any other "statins", or if you have any other allergies.
This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions.
Moreover, please consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication regarding your medical history, especially of if you suffer from heart disease, have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), diabetes (poorly controlled), or alcohol use.
The rare development of severe muscle damage (see Side Effects section) can infrequently lead to serious kidney problems. This medication is usually temporarily stopped if you have any condition which can increase your risk of developing kidney problems. Before stopping your medication, notify your doctor immediately if you have any of the following conditions: major surgery, trauma, serious illness (e.g. sepsis, severe metabolic/endocrine/electrolyte disorders), very low blood pressure, or uncontrolled seizures).
You should also limit alcoholic beverages. Daily use of alcohol may increase your chance for serious side effects.
Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug, especially muscle damage.
This medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is recommended that young girls and women of child-bearing age use effective birth control measures to prevent pregnancy while taking this drug since atorvastatin may cause harm to an unborn baby.
Additionally, this medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug, therefore it is advised that you consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Why is this medication prescribed?
Dosage and using this medicine
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
In case of an emergency/overdose