Generic Name:

• Atorvastatin (20 mg)

Brand Name:

• zooviStat 20 (by TrPharma, a division of ThinkRoman Ventures LLP)

Pharmacologic Class:

• HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor (Statin)

Therapeutic Use:

• Hyperlipidemia and Dyslipidemia: Used to lower elevated total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides while increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C).
• Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: Reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other heart-related complications in individuals with or at risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Helps manage cholesterol levels in patients with genetically high cholesterol.

Mechanism of Action:

• Atorvastatin: Inhibits the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This reduction in cholesterol synthesis leads to an increased uptake of LDL-C from the blood, thereby lowering overall cholesterol levels.

Dosage Forms:

• Tablets: Typically available in blister or Alu-Alu packaging, 10x15 tablet packs.

Indications:

• Primary hypercholesterolemia
• Mixed dyslipidemia
• Prevention of cardiovascular events in high-risk patients
• Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia

Contraindications:

• Known hypersensitivity to atorvastatin or other statins.
• Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevation of liver enzymes.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Statins are contraindicated as they may harm the fetus or infant.

Adverse Effects:

• Common: Diarrhea, nausea, muscle pain, joint pain, headache.
• Serious: Rhabdomyolysis, liver enzyme abnormalities, or severe muscle problems.
• Rare: Allergic reactions, such as rash or angioedema.

Drug Interactions:

• Antibiotics and Antifungals: Drugs such as clarithromycin or itraconazole may increase atorvastatin levels, raising the risk of side effects.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): May increase bleeding risk.
• Other Lipid-lowering Agents (e.g., fibrates): May increase the risk of muscle-related side effects.

Special Precautions:

• Liver Function Monitoring: Liver enzymes should be assessed before starting therapy and periodically thereafter.
• Kidney Function: Use cautiously in patients with severe renal impairment.
• Muscle Symptoms: Monitor for unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Pregnancy: Contraindicated due to potential harm to the fetus.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended as atorvastatin is excreted in breast milk.

Pediatric Use:

• Not typically recommended for children under 10 years unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider.

Dosage:

• Adults: One tablet (20 mg) taken once daily. The dose may be adjusted based on cholesterol levels and clinical response.

Storage:

• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Store out of reach of children.

Missed Dose:

• Take as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Overdose Management:

• Symptoms may include muscle weakness, fatigue, or signs of liver damage.
• Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Expert Advice:

• Take at the same time each day, with or without food.
• Avoid grapefruit juice, as it can increase the level of atorvastatin in the blood.
• Maintain a low-cholesterol diet and exercise routine to enhance the medication’s effectiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What should I do if I experience muscle pain?
Report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness to your doctor immediately.
• Can I drink alcohol while taking zooviStat 20?
Limit alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of liver damage.
• How long will it take to see results?
Improvement in cholesterol levels can be seen within 2-4 weeks, but the medication should be taken long-term as prescribed.