Aztor
Generic Name
Atorvastatin
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| aztor 40 mg tablet | ৳ 26.00 | ৳ 260.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Aztor 40 mg Tablet contains Atorvastatin, which is used to lower high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It helps reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 10-20 mg once daily. For Aztor 40 mg, it is typically used for patients requiring a larger reduction in LDL-C or for those at higher cardiovascular risk. Max dose is 80 mg once daily. Dosage should be individualized based on LDL-C levels and patient response.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is required in elderly patients.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment is not required for patients with renal impairment.
How to Take
Take orally, once daily, with or without food. It can be taken at any time of day, but it is often recommended to take it in the evening.
Mechanism of Action
Atorvastatin selectively inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme responsible for converting 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. This inhibition decreases cholesterol synthesis in the liver and increases the number of LDL receptors on the hepatocyte cell surface, leading to increased uptake and catabolism of LDL.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Lipid-lowering effects observed within 2 weeks, maximal effects typically seen after 4 weeks of therapy.
Excretion
Primarily eliminated via biliary excretion following hepatic and/or extrahepatic metabolism. Less than 2% is recovered in the urine.
Half life
Approximately 14 hours for the parent drug. The half-life of inhibitory activity for HMG-CoA reductase is 20-30 hours due to active metabolites.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, peak plasma concentrations attained within 1-2 hours. Absolute bioavailability is approximately 12%.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) to active ortho- and para-hydroxylated metabolites and inactive beta-oxidation products.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases
- Hypersensitivity to atorvastatin or any component of the formulation
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Atorvastatin may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring careful monitoring of INR.
Cyclosporine, Gemfibrozil, Niacin
Concomitant use may increase the risk of muscle-related adverse events, including rhabdomyolysis.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., macrolide antibiotics, azole antifungals, protease inhibitors)
Increased plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, leading to an increased risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected 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, symptomatic and supportive measures should be implemented. Due to extensive protein binding, hemodialysis is not expected to significantly enhance atorvastatin clearance.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It can cause fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should use adequate contraception during treatment.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases
- Hypersensitivity to atorvastatin or any component of the formulation
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Atorvastatin may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring careful monitoring of INR.
Cyclosporine, Gemfibrozil, Niacin
Concomitant use may increase the risk of muscle-related adverse events, including rhabdomyolysis.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., macrolide antibiotics, azole antifungals, protease inhibitors)
Increased plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, leading to an increased risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected 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, symptomatic and supportive measures should be implemented. Due to extensive protein binding, hemodialysis is not expected to significantly enhance atorvastatin clearance.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It can cause fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should use adequate contraception during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Atorvastatin has been extensively studied in numerous large-scale clinical trials (e.g., ASCOT-LLA, MIRACL, TNT) demonstrating its efficacy in reducing LDL-C, total cholesterol, and the risk of major cardiovascular events across various patient populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST) before initiation and periodically thereafter (e.g., at 6 and 12 weeks after initiation or dose escalation, then semiannually)
- Lipid panel (Total Cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, Triglycerides) periodically to assess treatment response
- Creatine Kinase (CK) levels should be measured if muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness occurs
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise) alongside pharmacotherapy.
- Counsel patients on potential muscle-related side effects and advise prompt reporting.
- Monitor liver function tests at baseline and as clinically indicated, especially with dose escalation.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Aztor exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well.
- Report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness immediately to your doctor.
- Follow a cholesterol-lowering diet and exercise program recommended by your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Aztor is generally not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, some individuals may experience dizziness, which could impair these abilities. Exercise caution until you know how the medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a heart-healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats and cholesterol.
- Engage in regular physical activity (at least 30 minutes most days of the week).
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
- Manage stress effectively.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Aztor Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
