Atorvastatin
- Generic name
- atorvastatin calcium
- Brand names
- Lipitor
Medically reviewed by Marcus Bell, PharmDWritten by Priya Nair, MPHUpdated on
What is atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin belongs to a group of medicines called statins. It lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and modestly raises HDL cholesterol.
Statins are among the most studied heart medicines. They lower the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with heart disease or at higher risk of it.
What it's used for
- Lowering high LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
- Reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular events in people at increased risk
Forms and strengths
| Form | Available strengths |
|---|---|
| Tablet | 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg |
Your prescriber decides which form and dose is right for you.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Diarrhoea
- Cold-like symptoms
- Indigestion
Tell your doctor if these are severe or don't go away.
Serious side effects
- Severe, unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, especially with fever or dark urine — contact a doctor straight away
- Signs of liver problems such as yellowing skin or eyes
- Allergic reactions
Call your doctor right away, or emergency services if symptoms are life-threatening.
Interactions
Some medicines and foods raise atorvastatin levels and the risk of muscle side effects, including:
- Certain antibiotics and antifungals (for example clarithromycin, itraconazole)
- Some HIV and hepatitis C medicines
- Ciclosporin and gemfibrozil
- Large amounts of grapefruit juice
Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines and supplements you take.
Warnings
- Not used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Your doctor may check liver tests and ask about muscle symptoms.
- Statins can slightly raise blood sugar; the heart benefits usually outweigh this.
Take atorvastatin exactly as prescribed. Don't stop it without talking to your doctor.
Cost and alternatives
Atorvastatin is widely available as a generic. Other statins include rosuvastatin, simvastatin and pravastatin. Non-statin options include ezetimibe and PCSK9 inhibitors.
Frequently asked questions
What time of day should I take atorvastatin?
It can be taken at any time of day because it lasts a long time in the body. Taking it at the same time each day helps you remember.
How we reviewed this article
Beargoal has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and medical associations. We avoid tertiary references. Learn more in our editorial process.
- MedlinePlus Atorvastatin. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a600045.html
- October 7, 2026Reviewed by a clinical pharmacist and published. Medically reviewed by Marcus Bell, PharmD.
Medically reviewed by Marcus Bell, PharmDWritten by Priya Nair, MPHUpdated on
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