Atorvastatin with Ezetimibe

-Atorvastatin with Ezetimibe is a combination medication used to manage lipid levels in the blood. Atorvastatin is a statin that reduces cholesterol production, and Ezetimibe is a cholesterol absorption inhibitor. Together, they work to lower total cholesterol and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels. -Atorvastatin and Ezetimibe are hypolipidamic agents. Both have a different mode of action, which is often necessary to achieve a desired satisfactory reduction in lipid levels.

Indications

-Hypercholesterolemia: Used to lower elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. -Mixed Hyperlipidemia: Effective in treating mixed dyslipidemia when elevated cholesterol and triglycerides are both present. -Primary hypercholesterolemia, homozygous, familial hypercholesterolemia, homozygous sitosterolemia, heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, combined hyperlipidaemia, hyperlipoproteinaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia, hyperlipidaemia associated with hypertension and type II diabetes.

Dosage

-Dosage depends on the specific lipid profile and individual patient factors. The combination is usually administered orally and can be taken with or without food. -Atorvastatin 10mg and Ezetimibe 10mg orally once daily.

Contra-Indications

-Hypersensitivity: Avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to atorvastatin, ezetimibe, or any component of the combination. -Liver Disease: Contraindicated in patients with active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations in liver transaminases.

Special Precautions

-Hepatic insufficiency, high alcohal intake, unexplained muscular pain, tenderness, or weakness, mutagenesis, carcinogenesis. Impairment of infertility. -Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding; discuss the risks and benefits with a healthcare provider. -Muscle Disorders: Monitor for signs of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, especially in patients with a history of muscle disorders.

Side Effects

-Common side effects may include headache, muscle pain, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Serious side effects are rare but may include liver dysfunction and muscle disorders. -Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, insomnia, reversible myositis, chest pain, alopecia, impotence, altered LFTs, hyperglycaemia, hypoglycaemia.

Drug Interactions

-Cyclosporine: Increased risk of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis when used concurrently. -Warfarin: Monitor international normalized ratio (INR) closely when used with atorvastatin.Antacids, colestipol, digoxin, erythromycin.