Atorlip 5

Atorlip 5 contains atorvastatin calcium, a potent lipid-lowering medication belonging to the statin class. It is indicated as an adjunct to diet and lifestyle modifications for the management of dyslipidemia, specifically to reduce elevated levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and apolipoprotein B. By competitively inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in hepatic cholesterol synthesis, Atorlip 5 enhances the clearance of circulating LDL via upregulation of hepatic LDL receptors. This mechanism supports primary and secondary prevention strategies in patients with hypercholesterolemia and established cardiovascular disease or multiple risk factors, aiming to reduce the incidence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events.

Features

• Active ingredient: Atorvastatin calcium 5 mg
• Pharmacologic class: HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin)
• Form: Film-coated tablets
• Prescription-only medication
• Manufactured under strict GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards
• Bioavailability: ~12%
• Plasma protein binding: ≥98%
• Time to peak plasma concentration: 1–2 hours
• Half-life: ~14 hours; active metabolites have half-lives of 20–30 hours
• Primary route of elimination: Hepatic metabolism via CYP3A4; fecal excretion

Benefits

• Significantly reduces LDL cholesterol levels by 30–50% at standard doses, a key modifiable risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
• Lowers triglyceride levels and modestly increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), contributing to a more favorable lipid profile
• Demonstrates proven efficacy in reducing the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and revascularization procedures in high-risk patients
• Offers once-daily dosing convenience, supporting long-term adherence to therapy
• Provides a well-tolerated option for lipid management with an extensive clinical evidence base spanning decades of use
• Suitable for use in combination with other lipid-modifying therapies in certain patient populations under specialist supervision

Common use

Atorlip 5 is commonly prescribed for the treatment of primary hypercholesterolemia (including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia) and mixed dyslipidemia. It is utilized in both primary prevention for patients with multiple risk factors (such as hypertension, diabetes, smoking, or family history) to reduce the risk of first cardiovascular events, and in secondary prevention for patients with established coronary artery disease, prior myocardial infarction, or stroke to prevent recurrent events. It may also be used in homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia as an adjunct to other lipid-lowering treatments.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dose for most patients is Atorlip 5 (5 mg) once daily, which may be adjusted based on lipid-lowering response and tolerability. Dosage can be increased to a maximum of 80 mg daily, though higher doses require careful monitoring. Administration can occur with or without food, though consistency in timing is advised. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed or chewed. Dosage adjustments are necessary in patients taking concomitant CYP3A4 inhibitors, in those with renal impairment, and in certain ethnic populations—consult prescribing information for specific guidance. Lipid levels should be assessed within 2–4 weeks of initiation or titration and periodically thereafter.

Precautions

Liver function tests (ALT, AST) should be performed before initiating therapy and periodically thereafter; discontinue if persistent elevations occur. Patients should report unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness promptly, as these may be signs of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Use with caution in patients consuming substantial quantities of alcohol or with a history of liver disease. Blood glucose levels should be monitored, as statins may increase HbA1c and fasting serum glucose levels. Not recommended during pregnancy or in women of childbearing potential not using contraception. Elderly patients may require closer monitoring due to potential for increased systemic exposure.

Contraindications

Atorlip 5 is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases exceeding three times the upper limit of normal. It must not be used during pregnancy, in women who are breastfeeding, or in those who may become pregnant. Hypersensitivity to atorvastatin or any excipient in the formulation is a contraindication. Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., itraconazole, clarithromycin, HIV protease inhibitors) is contraindicated due to increased risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis.

Possible side effect

Common adverse reactions (≥2%) include headache, myalgia, arthralgia, diarrhea, nausea, and increased liver enzymes. Less frequently, insomnia, nightmares, and urinary tract infections may occur. Rare but serious side effects include rhabdomyolysis with renal dysfunction, hepatotoxicity, immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy, and memory impairment. Hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, pruritus, and urticaria have been reported. Some patients may experience increased HbA1c and fasting serum glucose levels.

Drug interaction

Atorvastatin is metabolized primarily by CYP3A4. Concomitant use with strong inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, itraconazole, ritonavir) increases atorvastatin exposure and risk of myopathy. Moderate inhibitors (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil) may also increase exposure. Use with gemfibrozil and other fibrates increases myopathy risk. Cyclosporine, niacin, and colchicine may increase adverse reaction risk. Antacids and bile acid sequestrants may reduce atorvastatin absorption—administer at least 2 hours apart. Warfarin: monitor INR closely as atorvastatin may enhance anticoagulant effect.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If it is near the time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the usual dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Consistency in daily administration is important for maintaining lipid-lowering efficacy.

Overdose

There is no specific antidote for atorvastatin overdose. Suspected overdose should be managed with supportive measures, including monitoring of vital signs and clinical status. Given the extensive protein binding, hemodialysis is not expected to enhance elimination. Liver function and CPK levels should be monitored. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15–30°C) in the original container, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour into drainage unless instructed to do so.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and individualized treatment recommendations. Do not initiate, discontinue, or change the dosage of any medication without medical supervision. The prescribing physician should be aware of the patient’s complete medical history, concomitant medications, and potential risk factors.

Reviews

“After six months on Atorlip 5, my LDL dropped from 190 to 98 mg/dL with no side effects. My cardiologist is pleased with the progress.” — Patient, 58
“Effective for familial hypercholesterolemia management. Requires periodic liver enzyme checks but well-tolerated overall.” — General Practitioner
“As part of a comprehensive cardiovascular risk reduction strategy, atorvastatin 5 mg provides a balanced option for moderate-risk patients needing LDL reduction.” — Cardiologist
“Noticeable improvement in lipid panel within weeks. Convenient once-daily dosing supports long-term adherence.” — Patient, 64
“Important to monitor for muscle symptoms, but for most patients, this is a foundational therapy in lipid management.” — Internal Medicine Specialist