Patient/caregiver was educated on the precautions to be observed while taking atorvastatin as follows:
- Watch closely for development of any allergic reactions to atorvastatin, such as, skin rashes, hives, and rashes. Some patients can present with symptoms of angioneurotic edema, such as, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, throat, and tongue, with consequent difficulty breathing. Seek emergency medical help for such findings, especially with difficulty breathing, for any appropriate measures to be considered.
- Discuss with your doctor regarding any history of liver damage, compromised renal function, and muscle injury and breakdown, as atorvastatin has potential to cause/exacerbate these conditions.
- As alcohol can increase the risk for liver damage and toxicity, when taken with atorvastatin, avoid drinking alcohol with this medication. Discuss with your doctor, if you consume more than 2 drinks of alcoholic beverages a day.
- Taking atorvastatin after having a meal or a snack, can help avoid unpleasant gastrointestinal side-effects of atorvastatin intake, such as, nausea and vomiting, dyspepsia, and stomach upset.
