Lipitor provides relief from high cholesterol to thousands of patients every day, which helped make it 2008′s top selling prescription drug. Lipitor works by restricting the amount of cholesterol that can be produced by the body’s liver. It does so by targeting an enzyme known as HMG-CoA reductase. In fact, Lipitor is classified by the FDA as a statin. All statins act as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, reducing the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream when taken. Lipitor is designed to be accompanied by regular dieting and exercise and should not be viewed as a cure for chronic cholesterol issues.

Lipitor is available in several dosages, allowing doctors to prescribe precise amounts, tailored to best treat each individual patient. The amount of Lipitor prescribed for a given individual varies depending on that individual’s age, current medication regiment, past health history and other similar factors.

Lipitor Dosages for High Cholesterol

Available dosages for Lipitor range from 10 mg to 80 mg. A typical starting dose is 10 mg or 20 mg, although patients with particularly high cholesterol may be given a 40 mg dose of Lipitor to start. Two to four weeks after a patient first takes Lipitor, a follow-up visit with the doctor should be scheduled to have the current dosage re-evaluated. During this visit, one’s lipid level will likely need to be tested. This test provides the doctor with information regarding the amount of fatty substances present in the blood. After this initial visit, it is common for dosages to be increased from their starting position. The average dose of Lipitor is 20 mg to 40 mg daily. However, some individuals may be able to take Lipitor every other day and achieve the same effects. The patient should always check with their doctor before doing this. It is important to follow the directions given by a doctor, regardless of the current Lipitor dosage.

What to Know Before Taking Lipitor

Individuals with a history of liver disease or diabetes or those that are pregnant or regularly drink alcoholic beverages should not take Lipitor, as the drug could cause complications or exacerbate these conditions. In general, patients considering Lipitor should discuss the drug with their doctor, providing him or her with a list of all prescription and over the counter drugs they are currently taking. Finally, it is important to remember that Lipitor is intended to be just part of a solution for high cholesterol, with lifestyle changes contributing as well.