Atostin
Generic Name
Atorvastatin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| atostin 20 mg tablet | ৳ 20.00 | ৳ 200.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Atorvastatin is a lipid-lowering medication used to reduce levels of 'bad' cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL) and triglycerides in the blood, while increasing levels of 'good' cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL). It is also used to prevent cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke in patients at high risk.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 10-20 mg once daily. The dose can be adjusted based on LDL-C levels and therapeutic response, up to a maximum of 80 mg once daily. Doses should be individualized.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment required for elderly patients. Follow adult dosage recommendations.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment required in patients with renal impairment. Atorvastatin is not significantly cleared by the kidney.
How to Take
Take orally, once daily, with or without food, at any time of day. However, it is advisable to take it at the same time each day.
Mechanism of Action
Atorvastatin is a selective, competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that catalyzes the rate-limiting step in cholesterol biosynthesis. By inhibiting this enzyme, atorvastatin reduces cholesterol production in the liver, leading to an upregulation of LDL receptors on hepatocyte surfaces, which increases the uptake and catabolism of LDL. It also reduces very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) production.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Lipid-lowering effects within 2 weeks, maximal by 4 weeks.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in bile following hepatic and/or extrahepatic metabolism. Less than 2% is recovered in urine.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 14 hours, but the half-life of inhibitory activity for HMG-CoA reductase is approximately 20 to 30 hours due to active metabolites.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1 to 2 hours. Absolute bioavailability is low (approximately 14%) due to presystemic clearance and first-pass metabolism.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) to active ortho- and parahydroxylated metabolites and various beta-oxidation products.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases.
- •Pregnancy and lactation.
- •Hypersensitivity to Atorvastatin or any component of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Potentiation of the anticoagulant effect of warfarin. INR should be monitored.
Colchicine
Cases of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, have been reported with co-administration of colchicine and atorvastatin.
Gemfibrozil, other Fibrates, and Niacin
Increased risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis when co-administered with atorvastatin.
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Cyclosporine, Macrolide antibiotics like Erythromycin, Clarithromycin, Azole antifungals like Ketoconazole, Itraconazole)
Increased plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, leading to increased risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis. Dose adjustments or alternative statins may be needed.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
There is no specific treatment for atorvastatin overdose. In the event of an overdose, the patient should be treated symptomatically, and supportive measures instituted as required. Liver function tests and serum CK levels should be monitored.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Off-patent (Generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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