Drug Data Classification Mechanism of Action Indication Contraindications Side Effects Nursing Responsibilities

Generic Name: Pharmacologic Pharmacokinetics General Indications Contraindications Before

atorvastatin Class: -Gi disturbance 1. Assess for history of liver disease
-Selectively inhibits HMG- -reduction of -active liver disease 2. Asess patient’s lipid level
Brand Name: HMG-CoA CoA reductase, which elevated total -headache 3. Assess patient and family’s knowledge of drug
Lipitor reductase converts HMG-CoA to cholesterol & LDL -pregnancy therapy
inhibitor mevalonate, a precursor of cholesterol -myalgia
sterols -lactation
-reduce risk of MI, -insomnia
Patient’s Dose: stroke
10 mg 1 tab at bedtime -lowers cholesterol -pruritus During
and lipoprotein 1. Drug should be administered with
Therapeutic levels -muscle cramps food or after eating
Class: Drug interactions 2. Monitor vital signs especially BP

Anti-lipemic Antacids :may decrease

bioavailability

Digoxin : may increase digoxin

levels After
1. Warn patient to avoid alcohol
Erythromycin : may increase drug 2. Tell patient to report any adverse
level reactions like muscle pain, tenderness or
Patients Actual weakness especially if accompanied by
Indication warfarin : may increase
anticoagulant effect
fever
Onset Reduce risk of MI,
unknown stroke.
Patient had history of
Peak mild stroke in 2009.
1-2 hours Patient still don’t have
a lipid profile done
Duration
20-30 hours

Drug Half Life

14 hours
Source: Springhouse Nurse’s Drug Guide. 2007. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, page 188