From the FDA Drug Label
Atorvastatin is a selective, competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme that converts 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol In animal models, atorvastatin calcium lowers plasma cholesterol and lipoprotein levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase and cholesterol synthesis in the liver and by increasing the number of hepatic LDL receptors on the cell surface to enhance uptake and catabolism of LDL; atorvastatin calcium also reduces LDL production and the number of LDL particles.
Lipitor (atorvastatin) works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver. This inhibition leads to a decrease in the production of LDL (bad) cholesterol and an increase in the removal of LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. The main mechanisms of action are:
- Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase
- Reduction of cholesterol synthesis in the liver
- Increase in the number of hepatic LDL receptors
- Enhancement of LDL uptake and catabolism
- Reduction of LDL production and the number of LDL particles 1
From the Research
Lipitor (atorvastatin) works by reducing cholesterol production in the liver through the inhibition of the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, which is essential for cholesterol synthesis, as demonstrated in the most recent and highest quality study 2. This mechanism of action leads to a decrease in the amount of LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream, while slightly increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol levels. The typical dosing of Lipitor ranges from 10-80 mg once daily, with most patients starting at 10-20 mg and adjusting based on cholesterol levels and response, as noted in 3. It is essential to take the medication at the same time each day, with or without food, and to maintain consistent use to achieve its effects. Patients should be aware that Lipitor may take 2-4 weeks to show significant cholesterol-lowering effects, and regular blood tests are necessary to monitor both cholesterol levels and liver function, as mentioned in 4. Additionally, maintaining a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption will enhance the effectiveness of Lipitor in reducing cardiovascular risk, as supported by the findings in 5. Key benefits of Lipitor include:
- Reduction of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
- Increase in HDL cholesterol
- Improvement in cardiovascular outcomes, as demonstrated in 2
- Anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic effects, as noted in 5 Overall, Lipitor is a highly effective medication for reducing cholesterol levels and improving cardiovascular health, with a strong evidence base supporting its use, particularly in high-risk patients, as highlighted in 3 and 2.