Aztor 20mg Tablet (statin medication)

Description

Aztor 20mg Tablet is a statin medication manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. It contains 20 mg of Atorvastatin as the active ingredient and is commonly used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, and other heart-related complications.

Composition:

• Active Ingredient: Atorvastatin 20 mg per tablet.

What is Atorvastatin?

Atorvastatin belongs to a class of drugs known as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, or statins. It works by blocking the action of the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase in the liver, which is responsible for producing cholesterol. By inhibiting this enzyme, atorvastatin effectively lowers the levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol — commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol — and triglycerides in the blood, while increasing the levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, or “good” cholesterol.

Indications (Uses):

Aztor 20mg Tablet is used primarily for:

• Hyperlipidemia (High Cholesterol):
  • High LDL cholesterol: Aztor 20 is commonly prescribed to reduce LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides in individuals with high cholesterol levels.
  • Elevated triglycerides: It helps to lower triglyceride levels and improve overall lipid profile.
• Cardiovascular Risk Reduction:
  • Primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases: In patients with risk factors (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or family history of heart disease), atorvastatin can reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and the need for heart surgery.
  • Secondary prevention: For patients who have already experienced heart attacks or strokes, atorvastatin helps to reduce the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events.
• Atherosclerosis: It helps slow the progression of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) by reducing plaque formation in blood vessels, thus improving overall blood flow.
• Coronary Artery Disease: Reduces the risk of heart attacks, stroke, or the need for angioplasty or coronary artery bypass surgery.

Dosage:

The usual dose of Aztor 20mg Tablet varies depending on the individual’s cholesterol levels and treatment goals:

• Starting dose: Typically, 10 mg to 20 mg once daily for most patients.
• Maintenance dose: The dose can be adjusted based on the cholesterol target, ranging from 10 mg to 80 mg daily.
  • If the dose needs to be increased, it is usually adjusted in increments of 10 mg every 2-4 weeks.

Aztor 20 should be taken once daily, with or without food, and at approximately the same time each day to help you remember to take it consistently.

Side Effects:

Aztor 20mg Tablet is generally well tolerated, but some people may experience side effects, including:

• Common side effects:
  • Muscle pain or weakness (myopathy)
  • Headache
  • Stomach upset: Including nausea, gas, constipation, or diarrhea.
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
• Serious side effects (rare):
  • Severe muscle problems: Such as rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown that can lead to kidney damage).
  • Liver damage: Symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or pain in the upper abdomen.
  • Severe allergic reactions: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or severe rash.
  • Cognitive issues: Some people report memory loss or confusion, although these are rare.

Precautions:

Before using Aztor 20mg Tablet, tell your healthcare provider if you:

• Have liver disease: Atorvastatin can increase liver enzymes, and it should not be used in individuals with active liver disease or unexplained, persistent elevations of liver enzymes.
• Have kidney problems: The medication should be used with caution if you have kidney disease.
• Have a history of muscle problems: Atorvastatin can sometimes cause muscle pain or more severe muscle issues, so inform your doctor if you have a history of muscle-related problems (e.g., rhabdomyolysis).
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding: Atorvastatin should not be used during pregnancy as it can harm the fetus. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding as it can pass into breast milk.
• Have diabetes: Statins can cause a slight increase in blood sugar levels, so patients with diabetes or those at risk should be monitored regularly.
• Consume alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of liver damage while taking atorvastatin, so limit alcohol intake.

Drug Interactions:

Aztor 20mg can interact with several other medications, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the drugs you are taking. Some notable interactions include:

• Other cholesterol-lowering medications: Combining atorvastatin with other medications like fibrates (e.g., fenofibrate) or niacin can increase the risk of muscle-related side effects.
• Antifungals: Medications like ketoconazole or itraconazole can raise atorvastatin levels, increasing the risk of side effects.
• Antibiotics: Certain antibiotics like clarithromycin or erythromycin can increase the blood concentration of atorvastatin.
• HIV protease inhibitors: These medications may also interact with atorvastatin and increase the risk of side effects.
• Anticoagulants: If you are taking blood thinners like warfarin, atorvastatin can increase the risk of bleeding. Frequent monitoring of blood clotting times may be necessary.

Always inform your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter medications, including herbal supplements and vitamins, you are currently taking.

Storage:

• Store Aztor 20mg 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 the reach of children.