Vastocor
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 |
|---|---|---|
| vastocor 10 mg tablet | ৳ 12.00 | ৳ 120.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Vastocor 10 mg Tablet contains Atorvastatin, which is a medicine used to lower high cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. It belongs to a group of medicines called statins. It helps reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 10 mg once daily. The dose can be adjusted after 2-4 weeks based on lipid levels, up to a maximum of 80 mg once daily.
Elderly
No dose adjustment is required in elderly patients.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment.
How to Take
Vastocor tablet should be taken 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 selectively inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. This inhibition decreases hepatic cholesterol synthesis and increases the number of LDL receptors on the hepatocyte surface, enhancing uptake and catabolism of LDL. It also reduces VLDL and triglyceride levels.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Lipid-lowering effects seen within 2 weeks, maximal effects usually by 4 weeks.
Excretion
Primarily eliminated in the 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 HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity is 20-30 hours due to active metabolites.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration; peak plasma concentrations reached within 1-2 hours. Absolute bioavailability is approximately 12%.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) to ortho- and parahydroxylated derivatives and various beta-oxidation products, which are pharmacologically active.
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 anticoagulant effect, requiring careful monitoring of INR.
Colchicine
Increased risk of myopathy when co-administered with statins.
Cyclosporine
Significantly increases atorvastatin exposure, increasing risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis.
Gemfibrozil, other fibrates
Increased risk of myopathy when co-administered with statins.
Niacin (lipid-modifying doses)
Increased risk of myopathy when co-administered with statins.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., macrolides, azole antifungals)
Increased plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, increasing risk of myopathy.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct 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. Due to extensive drug binding to plasma proteins, hemodialysis is not expected to significantly enhance atorvastatin clearance.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception.
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 anticoagulant effect, requiring careful monitoring of INR.
Colchicine
Increased risk of myopathy when co-administered with statins.
Cyclosporine
Significantly increases atorvastatin exposure, increasing risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis.
Gemfibrozil, other fibrates
Increased risk of myopathy when co-administered with statins.
Niacin (lipid-modifying doses)
Increased risk of myopathy when co-administered with statins.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., macrolides, azole antifungals)
Increased plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, increasing risk of myopathy.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct 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. Due to extensive drug binding to plasma proteins, hemodialysis is not expected to significantly enhance atorvastatin clearance.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved in many countries including Bangladesh
Patent Status
Patent expired, generic versions available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Atorvastatin has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials, such as the ASCOT-LLA, MIRACL, and CARDS trials, demonstrating its efficacy in reducing LDL-C and cardiovascular event rates in various patient populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST) should be performed before initiating treatment and periodically thereafter.
- Lipid panel (Total-C, LDL-C, HDL-C, TG) should be monitored to assess treatment response.
Doctor Notes
- Assess LFTs before initiation and periodically. Counsel patients on symptoms of myopathy.
- Emphasize importance of diet and exercise alongside pharmacotherapy.
- Review concomitant medications, especially CYP3A4 inhibitors and fibrates, for potential interactions.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Vastocor exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Continue with a cholesterol-lowering diet and exercise program.
- Report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, 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
Vastocor 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
- Maintain a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Manage weight and avoid smoking.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.