Overview
- Atorvastatin was the most commonly prescribed medicine in England last year, reflecting widespread use.
- Pharmacist Peter Thnoia advises that persistent or worsening muscle pain, described as myopathy, should prompt contact with a GP.
- Pain that begins to limit physical activity may lead to blood tests and a discussion about switching to an alternative treatment.
- A significant drop in cholesterol is often detectable after about four weeks of therapy, with longer-term benefits accruing over months to years.
- Tolerance differs between patients, early side effects often settle within days, and a symptom-free first month usually indicates good ongoing tolerability.