Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.
Take the medicine at the same time each day, with or without food.
Do not break a Lipitor (atorvastatin) tablet before taking it.
The usual starting dose of Lipitor is 10 mg once a day in adults and children aged 10 years or older. This may be increased if necessary by your doctor until you are taking the amount you need. Your doctor will adapt the dose at intervals of 4 weeks or more. The maximum dose of Lipitor is 80 mg once a day.
Your doctor should start you on a low-fat diet before giving you Lipitor (atorvastatin). Stay on this low-fat diet when you take Lipitor (atorvastatin).
It may take up to 2 weeks before your cholesterol levels improve, and you may need frequent blood tests. Even if you have no symptoms, tests can help your doctor determine if this medicine is effective.
Lipitor (atorvastatin) is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control.
If you miss a dose, take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if you are more than 12 hours late for the dose. Do not use two doses at one time. Do not take 2 doses on the same day.
Store at room temperature; away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.