Side Effects of Atorvastatin
Atorvastatin is a drug that is classified under the statin drugs. It is a hypolipidemic or a drug that aids in the lowering of the cholesterol level. In addition, it selectively inhibits the HMG CoA reductase enzyme that is being manufactured by the liver. It has a famous brand name called Lipitor. This aids in lowering the bad cholesterol or LDL and increasing the good cholesterol or HDL levels. It is good in reduction of the risk in stroke and heart attack as well as other cardiovascular diseases. In long term usage, the person may experience side effects associated with its uses. Some of the common reported side effects are:
1. Memory loss
When one uses Atorvastatin in a long term treatment, there have been reports suggesting that it has the ability to affect one’s memory. This is related to the inhibition of the drug towards the steroid molecules which plays a huge role in the function of memory.
2. Muscular pain
This is a common side effect associated with the consumption of this drug. In a long while, it can become serious especially if you become ill and fever is developed along side with this side effect. This serious medical condition is called as Rhabdomyolysis.
3. Liver damage
This is a common negative effect in most statin drugs. When one has liver damage, he or she will report to have symptoms of nausea, light colored stools, abdominal pain in the upper right portion, jaundice and darker than normal urine color.
4. Skin rashes
Skin rashes may be experience once using this medication. In addition, the person may also experience flushing in his or her skin.
5. Allergic reaction
This is a rare side effect. When this happens, symptoms like hives and swelling of tongue, face, throat or lips which eventually leads to difficulty in swallowing or breathing.
6. Soreness of the muscles
Muscular soreness is a serious condition that may greatly affect the kidney resulting to kidney failure if not given the proper treatment. It may also place at risk for Rhabdomyolysis which is one factor of liver damage, failure of the kidney and worst case scenario, death.
7. Nausea, heartburn and abdominal pain
Gastrointestinal effects like nausea, heartburn and abdominal pain may also be reported in taking Atorvastatin. It is seen and experienced in the first few weeks and may diminish after the body has adjusted well to this kind of drug.
8. Weakness
Weakness of the muscles may be experience in line with the ingestion of this medication. This may eventually recede when the body is accustomed to the medication. This is a temporary and non-serious side effect.
9. Stomach upset
This is another common side effect which may be felt during the first few weeks and can be bothersome to some persons. It generally would go away in time.
10. Headaches
Headaches are common in the first few weeks of treatment with this medication. It can lead to problems concerning concentration. If it becomes severe, you need to consult a physician about it.
11. Flatulence
Flatulence is merely the passage of gas. It is reported to be felt during the initial treatment phase. This may lead to embarrassment on the part of the person. The good thing is that you can cure this with over the counter medication or those drugs which are prescribed by the physician.
12. Discomfort in the abdominal region
Discomfort in the abdominal region can lead to unable to enjoy one’s food. The person may feel decrease in appetite and discomfort while consuming this medication. If it become severe, it is advisable to consult a physician.