Lipitor (Atorvastatin): Dosage, Side Effects & What to Know

High cholesterol is a common problem in people, especially today with the availability of fatty fast food and the decrease in the amount of exercise people do. Drugs like Lipitor, which is the brand name product of the drug atorvastatin, is prescribed to lower the amounts of LDL cholesterol (which is bad), total cholesterol, triglycerides and apolipoprotein while increasing the amount of HDL cholesterol (which is good) in your blood. Lowering the bad cholesterol in your blood helps to decrease the chances of heart problems, stroke and peripheral vascular disease.

Things You'll Need

• Prescription for Lipitor

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Instructions

• 1

  Follow your doctor's instructions when taking Lipitor. Read the information that comes with your prescription carefully and if you have any questions, ask your doctor before starting the medication.

• 2

  Take Lipitor with a full glass of water. If your stomach becomes upset, it is safe to take it with food.

• 3

  Take Lipitor at the same time every day. To achieve the best results it's important to keep a regular schedule. Set a time that is easy to remember, like before breakfast.

• 4

  Schedule suggested blood tests to check your liver functions and monitor any side effects of Lipitor. Do not skip any scheduled appointments.

• 5

  Combine your Lipitor prescription with a low-fat diet and exercise program to achieve the best results. Avoid foods high in fat and cholesterol.