Atorvastatin
Tablet
Quick Summary
Atorvastatin is a statin. It lowers 'bad' (LDL) cholesterol by slowing how much cholesterol the liver makes, which reduces the build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries.
Medical Uses
How it's taken
Atorvastatin is a tablet taken once a day, at any time of day, with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day. Your doctor decides the right dose for you and may change it over time.
It usually needs to be taken long term. Your doctor will check your cholesterol and may check your liver with blood tests.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Muscle aches
Muscle pain or weakness. Tell your doctor, especially if it's unexplained.
Headache
Usually mild.
Stomach upset
Feeling sick, indigestion, diarrhoea or constipation.
Cold-like symptoms
A blocked or runny nose and sore throat.
Interactions
Grapefruit juice
Large amounts can raise the level of atorvastatin in the blood and the risk of side effects.
Some antibiotics and antifungals
Medicines such as clarithromycin or itraconazole can increase side effects.
Some HIV and hepatitis C medicines
Can raise atorvastatin levels; your doctor may change your treatment.
Critical Warnings
Severe muscle pain or dark urine
Black Box Warning: Rarely, statins cause serious muscle damage. Get urgent help if you have unexplained muscle pain with weakness, fever or dark urine.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Statins aren't used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you're pregnant or planning to be.
Liver problems
Tell your doctor about any liver disease. Seek advice for yellowing skin or eyes.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Atorvastatin(opens in a new tab) · NHS
- Atorvastatin: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine