INTRODUCTION

AVAS 5MG TABLET contains Atorvastatin which belongs to the group of medicines called Lipid-lowering drugs. It is used to reduce elevated high blood cholesterol levels (hyperlipidaemia) in patients when diet and lifestyle changes does not result in an adequate response.

Hyperlipidaemia is a condition characterized by increased levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides (fats) in the blood. If left untreated, these fat particles deposits in the blood vessels and hinders blood supply to vital organs which may lead to various problems such as heart attack or stroke.

By reducing blood cholesterol levels, AVAS 5MG TABLET can also prevent the risk of heart attack, stroke, angina or related health problems. AVAS 5MG TABLET can be used both in adults and in children (aged 10 years or above).

Along with the treatment, you must follow a cholesterol-lowering diet, lifestyle changes and regular physical activity as instructed by your doctor to achieve better results. Avoid consuming alcohol or grapefruit juice while taking AVAS 5MG TABLET as it may make AVAS 5MG TABLET less effective.

Before taking AVAS 5MG TABLET inform your doctor if you have any lung, liver, kidney or heart problems. You must also inform your doctor if you have diabetes, thyroid problems or a family history of muscle disorders.

Talk to your doctor before taking AVAS 5MG TABLET if you are already taking any antibiotics (such as fusidic acid) to treat any existing infections. Do not take AVAS 5MG TABLET if you are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting your doctor.

AVAS 5MG TABLET may increase your blood sugar levels, especially in patients who are diabetic. It may also affect the way your liver works, so your doctor will closely monitor your blood sugar levels and liver functions while undergoing therapy with AVAS 5MG TABLET as a precaution.

The most common side effects of taking AVAS 5MG TABLET are inflammation of nasal passage, throat pain, muscle ache, joint pain, back pain, constipation, nausea and headache. Consult your doctor if any of these side effects worsen.

Also, inform your doctor if you experience severe unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness along with fever after taking AVAS 5MG TABLET.

USES OF AVAS 5MG TABLET

• Treats high blood cholesterol levels
• Prevents the risk of heart attack, stroke, angina or related health problems

HOW AVAS 5MG TABLET WORKS

AVAS 5MG TABLET is a lipid-lowering medicine. It effectively reduces the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides in the body by blocking the action of an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase that synthesizes cholesterol within the body. It also acts on the liver and improves the body’s ability to remove lipid particles from the blood. As a result, it reduces blood cholesterol levels and prevents its associated risks.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Take AVAS 5MG TABLET as advised by your physician. Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine. AVAS 5MG TABLET can be taken with or without meals.

Your doctor will decide the correct dose and duration of therapy for you depending upon your age, body weight and health condition. Do not stop taking AVAS 5MG TABLET without consulting your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS OF AVAS 5MG TABLET

HOW TO MANAGE SIDE EFFECTS

Nausea and Vomiting:

Take AVAS 5MG TABLET with or just after meals. Stick to simple meals. Avoid eating oil-rich or spicy foods. Consult your doctor if your nausea worsens.

Headache:

Rest and relax. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or electrolytes. Apply a pain-relieving balm on the head if required. Do not consume excessive alcohol. Reduce looking into bright light and try to get adequate sleep. Consult your doctor if your headache worsens.

Constipation:

Eat plenty of fibre-rich foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables and cereals. Drink plenty of fluids. Exercise more regularly. Consult your doctor if this side effect bothers you.

WARNING & PRECAUTIONS

INTERACTIONS

A. Drug - Drug interactions:

Before taking AVAS 5MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines such as:

• medicines used to prevent graft rejection (Ex. cyclosporine)
• medicines used to treat bacterial infection (such as fusidic acid, erythromycin, clarithromycin, telithromycin)
• medicines used to treat fungal infection (such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole, posaconazole)
• rifampin (a medicine used to treat tuberculosis infection)
• other medicines used to reduce blood cholesterol levels (such as gemfibrozil, fenofibrate, colestipol or ezetimibe)
• medicines used to treat heart problems (Ex. amlodipine, diltiazem, digoxin, verapamil, amiodarone)
• medicines used to treat viral infections such as HIV or Hepatitis C (Ex. letermovir, ritonavir, lopinavir, atazanavir, indinavir, darunavir, the combination of tipranavir/ritonavir, telaprevir, boceprevir and the combination of elbasvir/grazoprevir, ledipasvir/sofosbuvir)
• warfarin (a medicine used to prevent blood clots)
• oral contraceptives (used to prevent pregnancy) Ex. levonorgestrel
• stiripentol (a medicine used to control epilepsy)
• medicines used to treat stomach ulcers (such as cimetidine)
• antacids (used to neutralize stomach acid and reduce heartburn) Ex. aluminium hydroxide or magnesium hydroxide
• phenazone (a medicine used for pain relief)
• colchicine (a medicine used to treat gout)
• St John’s wort (a herbal preparation used to treat depression)

 B. Drug - Food interactions:

Avoid consumption of grapefruit while taking AVAS 5MG TABLET as it may reduce its effectiveness.

Overdosage:

If you or anyone else accidentally took more AVAS 5MG TABLET, consult your doctor immediately or visit the nearby hospital.

SYNOPSIS

MORE INFORMATION

• Keep AVAS 5MG TABLET out of reach of children
• Store AVAS 5MG TABLET at room temperature

FAQs ABOUT AVAS 5MG TABLET

What are the uses of AVAS 5MG TABLET?

AVAS 5MG TABLET is a lipid-lowering medicine. It is used to control elevated blood cholesterol levels. By reducing blood cholesterol levels, AVAS 5MG TABLET can also prevent the risk of heart attack, stroke, angina or related health problems.

Can the use of AVAS 5MG TABLET cause diabetes?

Yes. AVAS 5MG TABLET may increase blood sugar levels in some patients. This is most predominantly seen in patients who already have diabetes along with obesity and/or hypertension. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are diabetic, obese or have hypertension. Your doctor will closely monitor your blood sugar levels while undergoing therapy with AVAS 5MG TABLET to avoid any unwanted side effects.

What is the best time to take AVAS 5MG TABLET?

Take AVAS 5MG TABLET as advised by your physician. Your doctor will decide the best time for you to take AVAS 5MG TABLET. Try to take this medicine at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food.

What are the side effects of taking AVAS 5MG TABLET?

The most common side effects of taking AVAS 5MG TABLET are pain in joints and muscles, gastrointestinal problems such as constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion or nausea and headache. Contact your doctor if any of the side effects worsen. Also, inform your doctor if you experience severe unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness along with fever after taking this medicine.

Can I consume alcohol along with AVAS 5MG TABLET?

AVAS 5MG TABLET should be used with caution in patients who consume large amounts of alcohol. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medicine to achieve maximum benefits.

Can the use of AVAS 5MG TABLET make me feel more tired?

Yes. The use of AVAS 5MG TABLET can make you feel more tired because it acts by reducing the supply of energy to the muscles present in your body. However, you may also feel tired due to other reasons such as severe liver damage. Consult your doctor if you experience excessive tiredness with muscle pain.

Who should not take AVAS 5MG TABLET?

AVAS 5MG TABLET is not recommended for use in patients with severe liver damage. It is also not suitable for use in patients having muscle problems. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding consult your doctor before taking AVAS 5MG TABLET. Before taking AVAS 5MG TABLET inform your doctor if you have diabetes or any kidney or heart problems. Do not take this medicine if you are undergoing therapy with antibiotics such as fusidic acid.

What are the dietary restrictions that I need to follow while taking AVAS 5MG TABLET?

While taking AVAS 5MG TABLET, follow a low-cholesterol diet as instructed by your doctor and avoid excessive alcohol intake. Avoid eating oil-rich or deep-fried foods. Limit your sugar intake by avoiding eating biscuits, cakes, soft drinks or pastries. Stick to a simple nutritious diet. Avoid consumption of grapefruit while taking AVAS 5MG TABLET as it may reduce its effectiveness.

What should I do if I forget to take a dose of AVAS 5MG TABLET?

If you forget to take a dose of AVAS 5MG TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time to take the next dose of AVAS 5MG TABLET, skip the missed dose and take the next one at regular times. Do not take a double dose of AVAS 5MG TABLET to compensate for the missed dose, as it could lead to toxicity.

Can I stop taking AVAS 5MG TABLET once my blood cholesterol level is controlled?

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, as it could once again increase your blood cholesterol levels. AVAS 5MG TABLET can only control your blood cholesterol levels and cannot cure them completely, therefore, it is important to take this medicine until your doctor advises you to stop.

Can I take AVAS 5MG TABLET if I am diabetic?

AVAS 5MG TABLET may increase blood sugar levels in some patients. This is most predominantly seen in patients who already have diabetes along with obesity and/or hypertension. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking AVAS 5MG TABLET if you are diabetic, obese or have hypertension.

Does AVAS 5MG TABLET cause muscle pain?

AVAS 5MG TABLET may cause a rare but serious side effect of unexplained muscle pain or weakness called rhabdomyolysis. It might be an early sign of potentially serious muscle degradation. Therefore, consult your doctor if you experience any signs of muscle problems after taking AVAS 5MG TABLET. Also, talk to your doctor before taking AVAS 5MG TABLET if you already have weak muscles or have a family history of any muscle disorders.

What is AVAS 5MG TABLET and what does it do?

AVAS 5MG TABLET is a lipid-lowering medicine used to control elevated blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It contains a medicine called atorvastatin which effectively controls elevated blood cholesterol levels by blocking the action of an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase which is involved in cholesterol production.

How long should I take AVAS 5MG TABLET to treat high cholesterol?

You should take AVAS 5MG TABLET as long as your doctor advises you to take it. Because AVAS 5MG TABLET will only help you in managing your cholesterol levels and cannot completely cure them. If you stop using AVAS 5MG TABLET, your cholesterol levels may raise once again.

Can AVAS 5MG TABLET be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women?

AVAS 5MG TABLET is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it. Women of childbearing age must use a reliable contraceptive method to avoid pregnancy while undergoing therapy with this medicine. However, if you accidentally become pregnant while taking this medicine, stop taking it and consult your doctor immediately.

REFERENCES

1. KD. Tripathi. Insulin, Hypolipidemic Drugs and Plasma Expanders. Essentials of medical pharmacology. Seventh edition. 2013. Page – 637.

2. Lindsey A. McIver, Momin S. Siddique. Statpearls. Mechanism of Action of Atorvastatin. National Institute of Health, National Library of Medicine, National center for biotechnology information. Pubmed.gov. September 2021. [Accessed on 9th April 2022] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430779/#:~:text=Go%20to%3A-,Mechanism%20of%20Action,cholesterol%20production%20in%20the%20liver

3. James W. Nawrocki, Stuart R. Weiss, Michael H. Davidson, Dennis L. Sprecher, Sherwyn L. Schwartz, Paul-J. Lupien, Peter H. Jones, Harry E. Haber and Donald M. Black. Reduction of LDL Cholesterol by 25% to 60% in Patients with Primary Hypercholesterolemia by Atorvastatin, a New HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor. Atherosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology. AHA Journals. May 1995. [Accessed on 29th September 2022] https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/01.atv.15.5.678

4. Sun Pharmaceutical Industries. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in December 2021] [Accessed on 9th April 2022] https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.4339.pdf

5. Zentiva Pharma UK Limited. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in February 2021] [Accessed on 9th April 2022] https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.11753.pdf

6. Pfizer Ireland Pharmaceuticals. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. [Revised in June 2009] [Accessed on 9th April 2022] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/020702s056lbl.pdf

USEFUL DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• CBC
• Lipid Profile
• Liver Function Test
• Echocardiography