Astorvastatin Overview and Mechanism

Study Notes

Astorvastin (Lipitor) Overview

Usual dose for oral administration is 10-20 mg once daily.

Classifications

Therapeutic classification: Lipid-lowering agent
Pharmaceutical classification: HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors/Statins
Indications primarily include the prevention of coronary disease.

Mechanism of Action & Therapeutic Effects

Works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis.
Therapeutic effects include lowering total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Reduces risk of myocardial infarction (MI) and slows progression of coronary atherosclerosis.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Serious adverse reactions: Rhabdomyolysis (muscle fiber breakdown releasing myoglobin into the bloodstream) and angioneurotic edema (hypersensitivity reaction).
Common side effects: Headache, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, and heartburn.
Contraindications include hypersensitivity, active liver disease, potential fetal abnormalities, and possibility of transferring through breast milk.

Nursing Implications

Collect dietary history, focusing on fat intake.
Evaluate and monitor cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Regularly assess liver function tests.
Monitor CPK levels if the patient experiences muscle tenderness.

Evaluation Parameters

Assess cholesterol and triglyceride levels regularly.
Monitor for decreased LDL and total cholesterol levels.
Look for an increase in HDL cholesterol.
Track a decrease in triglyceride levels.
Evaluate the effectiveness in slowing the progression of coronary artery disease.

Description

This quiz covers the overview of Astorvastatin (Lipitor), including its usual dosage, therapeutic and pharmaceutical classifications, and indications. It also delves into the mechanism of action, therapeutic effects, and common side effects associated with its use.