NHS Issues Warning on Atorvastatin Side Effects
The NHS has urged people taking the common statin atorvastatin to call 111 if they experience serious side effects. Atorvastatin, also known by the brand name Lipitor, is prescribed to lower cholesterol and prevent heart attacks, angina, and stroke in patients with cardiovascular disease. It is also given to those with diabetes, kidney disease, or familial hypercholesterolaemia.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, digestive problems, muscle aches, blocked or runny nose, and sleep problems. Most people do not experience serious side effects, but rare complications can occur.
Serious Side Effects to Watch For
The NHS advises calling 111 if you think you are having serious side effects. These include:
- Inflammation of the liver (hepatitis), causing yellowing of skin and eyes – yellowed skin may be less noticeable on brown or black skin
- Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), causing severe stomach pain
- Muscle inflammation and damage, causing cramps, severe pain, weakness, and possibly a high temperature or red/brown urine
- Allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), with symptoms like swollen throat or tongue, raised itchy rash, or difficulty breathing
For life-threatening emergencies, call 999.
Drug Interactions and Precautions
Atorvastatin should not be taken with certain other medicines, including fibrates, antifungals (itraconazole, fluconazole), antibiotics (fusidic acid, erythromycin, clarithromycin), HIV and hepatitis C medications, blood pressure drugs (diltiazem, verapamil), ciclosporin, warfarin, and St John's wort. The NHS advises limiting grapefruit juice to 1-2 small glasses per day, as it can increase side effect risk. Alcohol should also be limited to reduce the risk of liver problems.
