Atorvastatin
NHS 25 March 2026
What is Atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin belongs to a group of medicines called statins. It is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood and to reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. It is one of the most widely prescribed medicines in the UK.
How It Works
Atorvastatin blocks an enzyme (HMG-CoA reductase) in the liver that is needed to make cholesterol. This reduces the amount of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in the blood and increases HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
Who Should Take It
Your GP may prescribe atorvastatin if you have:
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease or have had a heart attack or stroke
- Diabetes
- A 10-year cardiovascular risk of 10% or more (assessed using a QRISK calculator)
How to Take It
Atorvastatin is usually taken once a day at night. You can take it at any time of day, with or without food, but try to take it at the same time each day.
Side Effects
- Headache
- Nausea, indigestion or constipation
- Muscle aches and pains (myalgia) — tell your GP if you have unexplained muscle pain, as rarely it can cause a more serious muscle condition (myopathy)
- Raised liver enzymes (usually returns to normal)
Important Precautions
- Avoid grapefruit juice as it can increase the level of atorvastatin in your blood
- Tell your GP if you are pregnant or breastfeeding (statins are not recommended)
- Some medicines interact with atorvastatin — always tell your pharmacist you take it