CHOVASTIN 10
ARTOVASTATIN CALCIUM USP
What it does
Artovastatin is a medication that helps lower cholesterol levels in the blood.
Commonly used for: high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), prevention of heart disease, protection against stroke
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-02-12 02:07:40 · updated 2026-08-03 02:09:57
About this medicine
Artovastatin is a medication that helps lower cholesterol levels in the blood.
What it treats
- high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia)
- prevention of heart disease
- protection against stroke
How it works
It works by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol, which helps reduce the amount of cholesterol in your blood.
Who it's for
It is for adults who have high cholesterol or are at risk of heart disease.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: artovastatin
Atorvastatin is a synthetic lipid-lowering agent belonging to the statin class. It is primarily used to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, thereby decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke. Atorvastatin works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a central role in the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver.
Indications
- Hyperlipidaemia
- Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease
- Secondary prevention in patients with established cardiovascular disease
- Familial hypercholesterolaemia
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: Refer to BNF for specific dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Atorvastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. This inhibition leads to a decrease in hepatic cholesterol levels, which subsequently stimulates the upregulation of LDL receptors on hepatocyte surfaces, enhancing the clearance of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol from the bloodstream.
Pharmacodynamics
Atorvastatin effectively lowers plasma cholesterol levels, specifically reducing LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. The overall effect is a favorable shift in lipid profiles, contributing to the reduction of atherosclerotic plaque formation and cardiovascular risk.
Pharmacokinetics
Atorvastatin is well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration. It undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism primarily via CYP3A4, leading to various metabolites. The elimination half-life of atorvastatin is approximately 14 hours, but its effects can last longer due to active metabolites. The drug is excreted mostly in the bile, with a small percentage eliminated through urine.
Contra-indications
- Active liver disease
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Hypersensitivity to atorvastatin or any of its components
- Unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases
Adverse effects
- Myopathy
- Rhabdomyolysis
- Liver enzyme abnormalities
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., nausea, diarrhea)
- Headache
- Rash
- Increased blood sugar levels
Interactions
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, ketoconazole) may increase atorvastatin levels
- CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, St. John's Wort) may decrease atorvastatin levels
- Warfarin may increase the risk of bleeding when used with atorvastatin
- Certain cholesterol-lowering agents (e.g., gemfibrozil) can increase the risk of myopathy
Precautions
- Monitor liver function tests during therapy
- Use with caution in patients with a history of liver disease
- Assess risk factors for myopathy and rhabdomyolysis
- Caution in patients with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes
Pregnancy
Atorvastatin is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Atorvastatin is contraindicated during breastfeeding due to potential adverse effects on the infant.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a tightly closed container, protected from light and moisture.
Formulations
- Tablets (10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg)
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.