Torvas
Generic Name
Atorvastatin Calcium
Manufacturer
Popular Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| torvas 10 mg tablet | ৳ 10.00 | ৳ 100.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Torvas 10 mg Tablet contains Atorvastatin, a medication used to lower high cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. It belongs to a group of drugs called statins.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 10 mg once daily. Dosage may be adjusted at 2-4 week intervals up to a maximum of 80 mg once daily. For primary hypercholesterolemia, common starting dose is 10-20 mg once daily. For homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, 10-80 mg once daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is necessary for patients with renal impairment.
How to Take
Take Torvas 10 mg Tablet orally once daily, with or without food. It can be taken at any time of day, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day, preferably in the evening.
Mechanism of Action
Atorvastatin works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme crucial for cholesterol production in the liver. This reduces the amount of cholesterol the body makes, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as 'bad' cholesterol.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Significant lipid-lowering effects observed within 2 weeks, maximum effect usually seen after 4 weeks.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in bile following hepatic and/or extrahepatic metabolism. Less than 2% is recovered in urine.
Half life
Elimination half-life of parent drug is approximately 14 hours. Active metabolites contribute to plasma half-life of 20-30 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, peak plasma concentrations occur within 1-2 hours. Absolute bioavailability is approximately 12%.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) to active ortho- and parahydroxylated metabolites and inactive 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
Colchicine
Cases of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, have been reported with co-administration.
Gemfibrozil, other fibrates, or Niacin (lipid-modifying doses)
Increased risk of muscle-related adverse events, including rhabdomyolysis.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, macrolide antibiotics, azole antifungals, protease inhibitors)
May increase plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, increasing risk of myopathy.
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 should be instituted as required. Liver function tests and CK levels should be monitored.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Torvas is contraindicated during pregnancy (Category X) and breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception. If pregnancy occurs, the medication should be discontinued immediately.
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
Colchicine
Cases of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, have been reported with co-administration.
Gemfibrozil, other fibrates, or Niacin (lipid-modifying doses)
Increased risk of muscle-related adverse events, including rhabdomyolysis.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, macrolide antibiotics, azole antifungals, protease inhibitors)
May increase plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, increasing risk of myopathy.
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 should be instituted as required. Liver function tests and CK levels should be monitored.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Torvas is contraindicated during pregnancy (Category X) and breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception. If pregnancy occurs, the medication should be discontinued immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, check expiry date on packaging.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent (generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Atorvastatin has been extensively studied in numerous large-scale clinical trials (e.g., ASCOT-LLA, CARDS, MIRACL, TNT) demonstrating its efficacy in reducing cardiovascular events and mortality.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) should be performed before starting treatment and periodically thereafter.
- Creatine Kinase (CK) levels should be measured before treatment in patients at increased risk for myopathy, and if muscle symptoms develop.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise) alongside pharmacotherapy.
- Educate patients on symptoms of myopathy and the need for prompt reporting.
- Regularly monitor lipid profile and liver function tests as per clinical guidelines.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by fever or dark urine.
- Maintain a cholesterol-lowering diet and regular exercise regimen as advised 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 continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Torvas is unlikely to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or other side effects that could impair your judgment, avoid driving.
Lifestyle Advice
- Adopt a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
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