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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
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Pharmacy and Medications |
Lipitor reactions05/03/2005 |
I hope this is correct area to ask my question. I recently was prescribed 10 mg. lipitor for cholesterol, I had taken it a couple days and started having problems with constipation, I called dr. and was told by his office assistant that this wasn`t a side effect of lipitor.Are you aware of any other complaints regarding lipitor ?
I know that muscle soreness is one of side effects. I having been eating fiber constantly, fruits, etc..not helping as much as I would like it to. I know what is normal for me and what usually works, but I am not having much luck.
Thank you.
Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) is in the class of medications known as HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors, more commonly referred to as statin drugs. Statins are used to lower harmful cholesterol (LDL) in the body by reducing its production. Statin drugs also increase the body's good cholesterol (HDL) levels, and decrease triglycerides. By doing this, statins can prevent heart attacks, strokes, and slow the progression of heart disease.Some commonly reported side effects with atorvastatin include headache, stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Atorvastatin, as well as other statin drugs, may cause muscle pain and weakness. Should you experience any new pain or weakness after beginning this medication, talk to your doctor immediately, as this may be a sign of serious muscle side effects. There have been reports of constipation in relationship to therapy with atorvastatin. It has been reported in up to 3% of those taking this medication. Generally, minor side effects decrease in occurrence over time, as the body begins to adjust to the medication.
Constipation is often relieved by increasing the amount of fiber in your diet. The American Dietetic Association recommends an adult daily dietary fiber intake of 20 to 30 grams. Some examples of foods that are high in fiber include: whole-grain breads and cereals, prunes, raisins, beans, oat bran, fruits and vegetables. High fiber supplements (e.g. Metamucil®, Fibercon®) are also available at pharmacies. In addition to increasing the amount of fiber in your diet, it is important to increase the amount of water that you drink. Finally, increasing your daily activity level (e.g. exercising regularly) can help relieve symptoms of constipation.
Atorvastatin is an effective medication for improving cholesterol levels in the body, and preventing cardiovascular disease by reducing heart attack and stroke risk. It can be a very beneficial medication for those at increased risk for heart disease, when taken correctly. It is recommended that you discuss your concerns about your use of this medication with your doctor, especially if the constipation persists or gets worse.
Submitted by Shari Scudder, PharmD candidate
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Jan Scaglione, BS MT, PharmD ,DABAT Assistant Professor of Pharmacy Practice Drug and Poison Information Center Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center University of Cincinnati |
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