Before you start to take Lipitor, talk to your doctor about:

• All the medicines you take including prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins and herbal supplements,
• Whether you have muscle aches or weaknesses,
• If you drink more than 2 glasses of alcohol daily,
• Whether you have an under- or overactive thyroid,
• If you have kidney problems including Type 2 Diabetes,
• Whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding,
• And/or if you have any blood/liver diseases.

Lipitor comes in a tablet form. It is generally taken once per day. However, you must take it as it is prescribed for you. It is suggested that you take Lipitor with a glass of water, with or without food. You can take Atorvastatin in the morning or in the evening. The important thing is that you take the medication at the same time each and every day. This will ensure that an even amount of the medication remains in your blood.

You should not crush, break or chew your tablets. Swallowing them is best. You will need to visit your doctor on a regular basis to have your blood levels tested to ensure that the medication is working properly. Liver function will probably also be checked too. Try not to miss these very important appointments. Lipitor is best stored at room temperature and protected from moisture, heat and sunlight.

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless, of course, it’s almost time for your next dose. Don’t double up. Instead, wait until it’s time to take your medication again and take the actual prescribed dosage. If you do overdose, seek medical attention immediately. You should also contact your doctor if you have any inexplicable muscle weakness, tenderness, dark-colored urine, fever or flu-like symptoms or any other difficulties.

If you do become pregnant while on this medication, you should talk to your doctor because Atorvastatin can cause birth defects. It can also make birth control pills less effective. You may wish to switch to a non-hormone method of birth control while taking the medication such as a condom, diaphragm, etc. This medication is not suggested for children under the age of 10.

Common side effects include:

• Mild stomach pain
• Gas
• Indigestion
• Bloating
• Heartburn
• Diarrhea
• Joint Pain
• Stomach upset
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Stuffy nose
• Itching
• Skin rash
• And muscle pain.

You may need to take Lipitor for the short-term or a longer period of time. Some patients may need to remain on the medication for the duration of their lives. The important thing to remember is that Lipitor, when combined with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, will provide you with the most benefits.