Indications of Atova 20

When the response to diet and other non-pharmaceutical measures is insufficient, atorvastatin can be used as a dietary adjuvant to reduce elevated total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and in the following diseases Levels triglycerides.

Reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in heterozygous and homozygous families in patients with hypercholesterolemia.

 Reduce elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in patients with mixed dyslipidemia (Fredrickson type Ia and Ib).

 For the treatment of patients with elevated levels of serum triglycerides in hypertriglyceridemia (Fredrickson type IV).

 For the treatment of patients with abnormal β-lipoproteinemia (Fredrickson type III).

 Reduce the incidence of cardiac ischemia in asymptomatic patients or patients with mild or moderately symptomatic coronary artery disease with elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

 Reduce the concentration of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in patients with hypercholesterolemia associated or aggravated by diabetes or kidney transplantation.

Pharmaceutical Name

Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Pharmacology

Atorvastatin is a selective HMGCoA reductase inhibitor. This enzyme is the restriction enzyme responsible for converting HMGCoA into mevalonate, which is the precursor of sterols (including cholesterol). Atorvastatin inhibits the synthesis of HMGCoA reductase and cholesterol in the liver, and increases the number of liver LDL receptors on the cell surface to enhance LDL uptake and catabolism, thereby reducing the plasma levels of cholesterol and lipoprotein

Dosage & Administration of Atova 20

Primary hypercholesterolemia and combined hyperlipidemia

 Adults: usually 10 mg per day; if necessary, it can be increased at least every 4 weeks, and can be increased at most once. 80 mg once a day

 Children (1018 years of age): Initially 10 mg per day, increasing at least every 4 weeks if necessary, until the usual maximum is reached. 20 mg once a day.

Familial hypercholesterolemia

 Adults: Initially 10 mg per day, increasing to 40 mg per day every at least 4 weeks; if necessary, increase further by to the maximum. 80 mg once daily (or 40 mg once daily in combination with anion exchange resin in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia).

 Children (1018 years): Initially 10 mg per day, increasing to the usual maximum every at least 4 weeks if necessary. 80 mg once a day.

Prevention of cardiovascular events

 Adults: Initially 10 mg once daily, adjusted for response.

Interaction of Atova 20

The risk of myopathy during treatment with atorvastatin increases with the simultaneous administration of cyclosporine, fibric acid derivatives , erythromycin, azole antifungals and niacin. When atorvastatin was administered with antihypertensive or hypoglycemic drugs, no clinically significant interactions were observed. If atorvastatin is added to digoxin, erythromycin, oral contraceptives, colestipol, antacids, and warfarin, the patient should be closely monitored.

Contraindications

Atorvastatin should not be used in patients who are allergic to any component of the drug. Atorvastatin is contraindicated for active liver disease or unexplained continuous elevation of serum transaminase. It is also contraindicated for patients with a history of 4,444 serious adverse reactions using HMGCoA reductase inhibitors.

Side Effects of Atova 20

Atorvastatin is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects of atorvastatin are constipation, flatulence, indigestion, and abdominal pain. Other side effects include infection, headache, back pain, rash, weakness, joint pain, and myalgia.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. Women of childbearing potential should use adequate contraceptive measures during treatment with atorvastatin. If a woman becomes pregnant while taking atorvastatin, should be discontinued.

Precautions & Warnings

Liver effects: Liver function tests should be performed before starting treatment and regularly after treatment. Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients who drink heavily or have a history of liver disease. If there is a significantly elevated CPK level or myopathy is diagnosed or suspected, atorvastatin treatment should be discontinued.

Therapeutic Class

Other Anti-anginal & Anti-ischaemic drugs, Statins

Storage Conditions

Store in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

Generic Name of Atova 20

Atorvastatin Calcium