The NHS has issued a reminder to anyone taking a common medication due to the potential for “serious” side effects(Image: Getty)
The NHS has provided guidance to patients taking a widely prescribed medicine to be aware of potentially “serious” adverse reactions. Those currently using atorvastatin should exercise caution regarding what they combine it with.
Atorvastatin belongs to a class of drugs known as statins, designed to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. Doctors commonly prescribe these to people diagnosed with elevated cholesterol, aiming to ward off cardiovascular conditions, such as heart attacks and strokes.
Article continues below
Your doctor might also recommend atorvastatin if heart disease runs in your family, or if you’re managing a chronic condition like type 1 or type 2 diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis. Nevertheless, as with all medicines, adhering to official guidance on safe usage is essential.
Article continues below
The NHS website highlights certain “cautions with other medicines”. This indicates the need to check compatibility before taking atorvastatin with other medications or supplements.
Preston incident LIVE as police shut down roads after ‘concern for welfare’
Police issue statement amid ‘concern for welfare’ in Preston city centre
The NHS said: “Some medicines can affect the way atorvastatin works and can increase the chances of you having serious side effects, such as muscle damage.” Consequently, patients are advised to inform their doctor or pharmacist if they’re taking any of the following:
- Antibiotics like erythromycin, clarithromycin, rifampicin or fusidic acid
- Antifungal medications such as ketoconazole, voriconazole or fluconazole
- Certain HIV treatments
- Specific hepatitis C drugs
- Warfarin, a medication used to prevent blood clots
- Ciclosporin, a treatment for psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Colchicine, a gout medication
- Contraceptive tablets, including the combined pill
- Verapamil, diltiazem or amlodipine, which are used for high blood pressure and heart issues
- Amiodarone, a drug that assists with irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation)
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you.
If you’re on atorvastatin and need to take one of these medications, your doctor might:
- Prescribe a reduced dose of atorvastatin
- Suggest a different statin medication
- Advise you to temporarily stop taking atorvastatin
These aren’t all the medications that can interfere with how atorvastatin functions. “For a full list see the leaflet inside your medicine packet or check with your pharmacist”, stated the NHS.
Article continues below
The health service also advised consulting your doctor or a pharmacist if you’re taking atorvastatin and considering St John’s wort supplements or CoQ10.
