Aztor 10 – Strip of 15 Tablets

Aztor 10 Tablet is a medication manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. It contains 10 mg of Atorvastatin as the active ingredient and is commonly prescribed to help manage cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Composition:

• Active Ingredient: Atorvastatin 10 mg per tablet.

What is Atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin is a statin medication used primarily to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for the production of cholesterol in the liver. By reducing cholesterol production, atorvastatin helps to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol, and triglycerides, while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol.

Indications (Uses):

Aztor 10 Tablet (Atorvastatin) is used to:

• Lower LDL cholesterol: It is most commonly prescribed for people with high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) to reduce the risk of heart disease, strokes, and other cardiovascular events.
• Reduce triglycerides: Atorvastatin can help lower elevated triglyceride levels, which are often associated with heart disease.
• Prevent cardiovascular disease: Atorvastatin is used to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and the need for heart surgery in individuals with certain risk factors, such as high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of heart disease.
• Atherosclerosis: It is used to slow down the progression of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).
• Prevention of cardiovascular events: In individuals at high risk for cardiovascular diseases, atorvastatin can help prevent heart attacks or strokes.

Dosage:

The dosage of Aztor 10 Tablet depends on the individual’s cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk. The typical starting dose is usually 10 mg once daily, but the dose may be adjusted based on the patient’s cholesterol levels and treatment goals.

• Starting dose: 10 mg once a day (this may be increased based on response).
• Maintenance dose: The dose can be adjusted to a range of 10 mg to 80 mg per day, depending on the severity of the condition and treatment response.

Aztor 10 Tablet should be taken orally, typically in the morning or evening with or without food. The dose is usually taken at the same time each day to maintain consistency.

Side Effects:

Aztor 10 Tablet (Atorvastatin) is generally well tolerated, but it may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects may include:

• Muscle pain or weakness (myopathy)
• Headache
• Digestive issues: Nausea, constipation, diarrhea, or stomach pain.
• Liver enzyme changes: Blood tests may show elevated liver enzymes.
• Dizziness
• Sleep disturbances (e.g., trouble sleeping, nightmares)
• Rash or itching

Serious Side Effects (Rare):

• Severe muscle problems: Such as rhabdomyolysis, a rare but serious condition where muscle tissue breaks down, potentially leading to kidney failure.
• Liver damage: Symptoms of liver problems include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or pain in the upper abdomen.
• Severe allergic reactions: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe rash.
• Cognitive issues: Memory loss or confusion (rare).

If any of these serious side effects occur, seek medical attention immediately.

Precautions:

Before taking Aztor 10 Tablet, it’s important to inform your doctor if you have:

• Liver disease: Atorvastatin should not be used in individuals with active liver disease or unexplained, persistent elevation of liver enzymes.
• Kidney problems: Caution is needed in patients with kidney impairment.
• Muscle disorders: If you have a history of muscle issues (e.g., myopathy or rhabdomyolysis), atorvastatin should be used with caution.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Atorvastatin should not be used during pregnancy, as it can harm the fetus. It is also contraindicated during breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and affect the baby.
• Alcohol consumption: Limit alcohol intake, as heavy drinking can increase the risk of liver problems when taking statins.
• Diabetes: Statins may slightly increase blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes or at risk for diabetes should be monitored closely.

Drug Interactions:

Atorvastatin may interact with several other medications, including:

• Other cholesterol-lowering medications: Especially fibric acid derivatives (e.g., fenofibrate) or niacin, which may increase the risk of muscle side effects.
• Antibiotics: Certain antibiotics like clarithromycin or erythromycin can increase atorvastatin levels in the blood.
• Antifungal drugs: Medications like ketoconazole or itraconazole can interact with atorvastatin and increase the risk of side effects.
• Anticoagulants: Warfarin (a blood thinner) can interact with atorvastatin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Regular monitoring of blood clotting times may be required.
• Calcium channel blockers: Such as diltiazem or verapamil, may increase the concentration of atorvastatin in the bloodstream.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies.

Storage:

• Store Aztor 10 Tablet at room temperature (20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F), away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.