Understanding Medicine: Lipitor

A pharmacist explains how Lipitor works, why doctors prescribe this cholesterol medication, and common side effects of the drug.

Female 1: Lipitor is the brand name for atorvastatin calcium, a cholesterol lowering medication approved by the FDA in 1999. Female 2: Atorvastatin calcium is a prescription medication which is available only under the brand name Lipitor. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called statins. Here is how Lipitor works: Cholesterol is a fat like substance which both made in the body and ingested fia food. While some cholesterol is necessary to fulfill basic bodily functions, too much can lead to hart disease. Lipitor fights high cholesterol levels by blocking the action of an enzyme used to produce cholesterol. With less of the substance being made, the liver instead uses cholesterol that is already in the blood, thereby lowering levels. Although Lipitor is used to treat high cholesterol, it is also approved to lower the likelihood of strokes or heart attacks in high-risk patients. Lipitor is available in 10, 20, 40 or 80 mg tablets. Lipitor should be taken once a day with water. For best results, this medication should be combined with a low cholesterol diet and a healthy exercise plan. The most commonly reported side effects of Lipitor include headaches, muscle pain and bowel difficulties. But please ask your doctor for a complete list. Also, tell your doctor immediately if you experience signs of liver problems such as dark colored urine or yellowing of the skin, very severe muscle pains or any other significant changes. Lipitor should never be taken by women who are pregnant or breast feeding or by people who drink more than two alcoholic beverages a day. Ask your doctor for a full list of medications and conditions that should not be combined with the atorvastatin. Lipitor is one of the most commonly prescribed medications today and it can help lower cholesterol levels. However this medication must always be used under the direct care of the physician. Please ask for and review all of the patient information provided for your doctor before taking Lipitor. Female 1: The information in this video is intended to supplement not substitute for the prescribing instructions and the expertise of your physician. Always consult your doctor before using this drug.