The NHS has issued a warning that certain groups, particularly pregnant women, should avoid taking the cholesterol-lowering drug atorvastatin due to potential risks. Atorvastatin is a commonly prescribed statin used to reduce high cholesterol and prevent heart disease, with an estimated 5.3 million people in England taking some form of statin.
According to NHS guidelines, atorvastatin is typically prescribed for individuals with high blood cholesterol, a family history of heart disease, or chronic conditions such as diabetes or arthritis. While effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease—which accounts for over a quarter of all deaths in England—the drug can cause side effects, including nosebleeds in some patients.
The NHS advises that pregnant women should generally avoid atorvastatin due to potential risks to fetal development and birth defects. Women who become pregnant while taking the drug are urged to stop immediately and consult a doctor. Alternative medications may be available. Additionally, women may be advised to stop taking atorvastatin while breastfeeding, as it is unclear how much of the drug passes into breast milk or whether it could harm a baby.
The NHS emphasises the importance of consulting a doctor if you are taking atorvastatin and are trying to conceive, are already pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Further guidance on atorvastatin can be found on the NHS website.
