Teslar
Generic Name
Atorvastatin Calcium
Manufacturer
MediCare Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| teslar 40 mg tablet | ৳ 13.00 | ৳ 91.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Teslar 40 mg Tablet contains Atorvastatin, which belongs to a group of medicines called statins. It is used to lower high cholesterol levels and fats (triglycerides) in the blood when a low-fat diet and lifestyle changes alone have failed. It can also be used to reduce the risk of heart disease in people who are at increased risk.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 10 mg once daily. For Teslar 40 mg, it can be used as a starting dose if LDL-C reduction requirement is significant, or as a maintenance dose. Doses range from 10 mg to 80 mg once daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required for elderly patients (over 70 years old) unless there are significant risk factors for myopathy.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is necessary for patients with renal impairment.
How to Take
Take Teslar 40 mg tablet orally, once daily, with or without food. It is recommended to take it at the same time each day, preferably in the evening, though it can be taken at any time of day.
Mechanism of Action
Atorvastatin is a selective, competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme that converts 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. By inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, atorvastatin reduces cholesterol synthesis in the liver and decreases the concentration of cholesterol in hepatic cells, which in turn upregulates LDL receptors on the cell surface, increasing LDL uptake and catabolism. Atorvastatin also reduces VLDL and triglyceride levels.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Lipid-lowering effects observed within 2 weeks, with maximum response generally achieved within 4 weeks.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in bile following hepatic and/or extrahepatic metabolism. Less than 2% is recovered in urine.
Half life
Approximately 14 hours (for parent drug) but due to active metabolites, the half-life for HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity is 20-30 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration; peak plasma concentrations reached within 1-2 hours. Absolute bioavailability is approximately 12%.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) to ortho- and parahydroxylated derivatives and various beta-oxidation products. These metabolites account for approximately 70% of systemic HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to atorvastatin or any component of the formulation.
- Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases.
- Pregnancy and lactation.
Drug Interactions
Colchicine
Increased risk of myopathy when co-administered with statins.
Gemfibrozil and other fibrates
Increased risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis when co-administered with statins.
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, telithromycin, clarithromycin, ritonavir, lopinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole)
Increased plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, increasing risk of myopathy. Coadministration should be avoided or dose reduced.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away 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 CK levels should be monitored.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Teslar is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to atorvastatin or any component of the formulation.
- Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases.
- Pregnancy and lactation.
Drug Interactions
Colchicine
Increased risk of myopathy when co-administered with statins.
Gemfibrozil and other fibrates
Increased risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis when co-administered with statins.
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, telithromycin, clarithromycin, ritonavir, lopinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole)
Increased plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, increasing risk of myopathy. Coadministration should be avoided or dose reduced.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away 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 CK levels should be monitored.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Teslar is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by FDA, DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Atorvastatin has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy in reducing LDL-C, triglycerides, and cardiovascular event risk in various patient populations, including those with hypercholesterolemia and high cardiovascular risk.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST) should be performed before initiation of therapy and periodically thereafter. Creatine Kinase (CK) levels should be measured before initiation of therapy in patients with risk factors for myopathy.
- Lipid profile (total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, triglycerides) to monitor efficacy.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of patient adherence to both medication and lifestyle modifications.
- Monitor liver function tests (LFTs) at baseline and as clinically indicated.
- Advise patients to report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness immediately.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Teslar 40 mg tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Continue taking this medication even if you feel well, as high cholesterol usually has no symptoms.
- Follow a cholesterol-lowering diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking while taking this medication.
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 continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Teslar is generally not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.
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