A large number of clinical trials have shown that atorvastatin reduces heart rate. The mean reduction in heart rate was 5.4 beats/minute (range -2.0 to -12.9) in the 8 pooled trials of atorvastatin 10 to 80 mg/day. The reduction in heart rate was dose-dependent and was seen within 2 weeks of starting treatment. The effect of atorvastatin on heart rate was maintained over the 4- to 12-week duration of the trials.
The reduction in heart rate with atorvastatin is thought to be due to a decrease in sympathetic nerve activity. This is supported by the finding that atorvastatin increases the heart rate variability which is a measure of the variability of the time interval between successive heartbeats. The increase in heart rate variability is thought to be due to a reduction in sympathetic nerve activity.
In addition to the reduction in heart rate atorvastatin also lowers blood pressure. The mean reduction in systolic blood pressure was 3.5 mmHg (range -2.0 to -9.0) and the mean reduction in diastolic blood pressure was 1.9 mmHg (range -0.5 to -5.0) in the 8 pooled trials of atorvastatin 10 to 80 mg/day. The reduction in blood pressure was seen within 2 weeks of starting treatment and was maintained over the 4- to 12-week duration of the trials.
The mechanism by which atorvastatin lowers blood pressure is not fully understood but is thought to be due to a decrease in sympathetic nerve activity and/or an increase in the activity of the renin-angiotensin system.
In conclusion atorvastatin reduces heart rate and blood pressure. The reduction in heart rate is thought to be due to a decrease in sympathetic nerve activity. The reduction in blood pressure is thought to be due to a decrease in sympathetic nerve activity and/or an increase in the activity of the renin-angiotensin system.
Does atorvastatin lower heart rate?
No atorvastatin does not lower heart rate.
What does atorvastatin do?
Atorvastatin is a cholesterol-lowering medication.
How does atorvastatin work?
Atorvastatin works by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver that is needed to make cholesterol.
What are the side effects of atorvastatin?
Side effects of atorvastatin may include headaches fatigue and muscle aches.
What are the benefits of atorvastatin?
Benefits of atorvastatin may include lower cholesterol levels and a reduced risk of heart disease.
Who should not take atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin should not be taken by people with liver disease or by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What should I do if I miss a dose of atorvastatin?
If you miss a dose of atorvastatin take it as soon as you remember.
What should I do if I overdose on atorvastatin?
If you overdose on atorvastatin call your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
What are the possible drug interactions with atorvastatin?
Possible drug interactions with atorvastatin include antacids birth control pills and certain antibiotics.
What are the storage requirements for atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture.
What is the generic name for atorvastatin?
The generic name for atorvastatin is atorvastatin calcium.
What is the brand name for atorvastatin?
The brand name for atorvastatin is Lipitor.
What is the maximum daily dose of atorvastatin?
The maximum recommended daily dose of atorvastatin is 80 mg.
What is the usual starting dose of atorvastatin?
The usual starting dose of atorvastatin is 10 mg.
What are the possible side effects of atorvastatin?
Side effects of atorvastatin may include headaches fatigue and muscle aches.
