Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on March 27, 2025
Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request an Online Prescription
Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to treat high cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart-related complications such as heart attack, stroke, and coronary artery disease.
Lowering cholesterol: Atorvastatin helps reduce levels of "bad" cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein or LDL) and triglycerides in the blood while increasing levels of "good" cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein or HDL). This helps lower the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.
Prevention of heart problems: By lowering cholesterol levels, atorvastatin helps prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries, reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and coronary artery disease.
Atorvastatin belongs to a class of medications known as statins. These drugs work by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver that plays a key role in the production of cholesterol. By blocking this enzyme, atorvastatin reduces the amount of cholesterol produced in the liver and increases the liver's ability to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood.
Cholesterol and fats can accumulate in the arteries and harden into plaque. Over time, plaque can increase blood pressure and raise the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke. By lowering levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, atorvastatin helps prevent these potentially fatal cardiovascular problems.
Note that atorvastatin is prescribed in conjunction with lifestyle interventions such as a healthy, reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Atorvastatin is typically taken orally, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. The dosage and frequency of atorvastatin will depend on your cholesterol levels, medical history, and response to treatment. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
The effects of atorvastatin on cholesterol levels may be noticeable within a few weeks of starting treatment. However, it's important to continue taking atorvastatin as prescribed, even if you don't notice immediate changes. Regular monitoring of cholesterol levels is necessary to assess the effectiveness of the medication.
Atorvastatin may also be prescribed off-label for conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia (an inherited condition causing high cholesterol) and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in individuals with diabetes or other risk factors. Discuss alternate uses of atorvastatin with your healthcare provider.
Atorvastatin is available as an oral tablet or as a liquid suspension.
Atorvastatin oral tablets are available under the brand name, Lipitor, as well as in generic forms. Atorvastatin liquid suspension is available under the brand name Atorvaliq. There are no generic versions of Atorvaliq available.
Atorvastatin is available only via prescription. You must have a written prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.
The use of atorvastatin has been shown to cause side effects in some patients.
Common mild side effects of atorvastatin use include:
More severe side effects include:
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any severe symptoms while taking atorvastatin. If you experience mild side effects that become severe or do not go away after a few days, speak to a healthcare provider right away.
Before starting treatment with atorvastatin, tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with this drug.
Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:
You should also mention medical conditions such as:
Tell your healthcare provider if you have 2 or more alcoholic beverages per day.
Inform your provider if you are 65 years or older before taking atorvastatin.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using atorvastatin to assess potential risks and benefits.
You can follow your regular diet while taking atorvastatin. Talk to your healthcare provider about the use of this drug with food, beverages, alcohol, and tobacco. Your provider will direct you to follow a healthy diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol while taking atorvastatin.
Your provider may recommend you avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking atorvastatin.
Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions regarding the use of atorvastatin with food, beverages, and other medications. It's essential to follow their guidance to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize the risk of side effects.
If you suspect an overdose of atorvastatin or experience severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Symptoms of an overdose may include muscle pain, weakness, or dark urine.
If an individual has collapsed, is having trouble breathing, or is unresponsive, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Atorvastatin is available in various forms:
The typical starting dose of atorvastatin can vary based on several factors, including the patient's lipid levels, cardiovascular risk factors, and overall health status. It is crucial to adhere to your healthcare provider's guidance regarding dosage and administration.
For adults with high cholesterol or lipid disorders, the typical starting doses may be:
For individuals with a high risk of cardiovascular events or those requiring more aggressive cholesterol management, the starting dose may be higher, such as:
Your healthcare provider will evaluate your lipid profile, medical history, and other relevant factors to determine the most suitable dose for you.
Atorvastatin should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or alter the treatment duration without consulting your provider.
If you have any questions about your dosage, contact your healthcare provider. If you want to talk to a provider right away, book an online doctor appointment on Sesame to discuss your concerns.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If your next dose of atorvastatin is less than 12 hours away, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose of atorvastatin.
Do not discontinue or alter your atorvastatin dosage without consulting with your healthcare provider. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosing and other recommendations for taking atorvastatin.
Store atorvastatin as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Proper storage is essential to maintain the medication's effectiveness. Atorvastatin should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat, light, and moisture.
Keep the medication out of the reach of children and ensure that the container is tightly closed.