Atorvastatin

HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION ----------------------WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS-----------------------
These highlights do not include all the information needed to use Skeletal muscle effects (e.g., myopathy and rhabdomyolysis): Risks increase
LIPITOR safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for when higher doses are used concomitantly with cyclosporine, fibrates, and
LIPITOR. strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, itraconazole, HIV protease
inhibitors). Predisposing factors include advanced age (> 65), uncontrolled
LIPITOR® (atorvastatin calcium) Tablets for oral administration hypothyroidism, and renal impairment. Rare cases of rhabdomyolysis with
Initial U.S. Approval: 1996 acute renal failure secondary to myoglobinuria have been reported. In cases of
myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, therapy should be temporarily withheld or
discontinued (5.1).
----------------------------INDICATIONS AND USAGE---------------------------
LIPITOR is an inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase (statin) indicated as an Liver enzyme abnormalities and monitoring: Persistent elevations in hepatic
adjunct therapy to diet to: transaminases can occur. Monitor liver enzymes before and during treatment
• Reduce the risk of MI, stroke, revascularization procedures, and angina (5.2).
in patients without CHD, but with multiple risk factors (1.1).
• Reduce the risk of MI and stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes without A higher incidence of hemorrhagic stroke was seen in patients without CHD
CHD, but with multiple risk factors (1.1). but with stroke or TIA within the previous 6 months in the LIPITOR 80 mg
• Reduce the risk of non-fatal MI, fatal and non-fatal stroke, group vs. placebo (5.5).
revascularization procedures, hospitalization for CHF, and angina in
patients with CHD (1.1). ------------------------------ADVERSE REACTIONS-------------------------------
• Reduce elevated total-C, LDL-C, apo B, and TG levels and increase
HDL-C in adult patients with primary hyperlipidemia (heterozygous The most commonly reported adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 2%) in patients
familial and nonfamilial) and mixed dyslipidemia (1.2). treated with LIPITOR in placebo-controlled trials regardless of causality
• Reduce elevated TG in patients with hypertriglyceridemia and primary were: nasopharyngitis, arthralgia, diarrhea, pain in extremity, and urinary tract
dysbetalipoproteinemia (1.2). infection (6.1).
• Reduce total-C and LDL-C in patients with homozygous familial To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer at
hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) (1.2). (1-800-438-1985 and www.pfizer.com) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or
• Reduce elevated total-C, LDL-C, and apo B levels in boys and www.fda.gov/medwatch.
postmenarchal girls, 10 to 17 years of age, with heterozygous familial
hypercholesterolemia after failing an adequate trial of diet therapy (1.2). ------------------------------DRUG INTERACTIONS-------------------------------
Drug Interactions Associated with Increased

Limitations of Use
Risk of Myopathy/Rhabdomyolysis (2.6, 5.1, 7, 12.3)
LIPITOR has not been studied in Fredrickson Types I and V dyslipidemias.
Interacting Agents Prescribing Recommendations
----------------------DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION----------------------- Cyclosporine Do not exceed 10 mg atorvastatin
Dose range: 10 to 80 mg once daily (2.1).
daily
Recommended start dose: 10 or 20 mg once daily (2.1).
Clarithromycin, itraconazole,
Patients requiring large LDL-C reduction (>45%) may start at 40 mg once
HIV protease inhibitors (ritonavir Caution when exceeding doses > 20
daily (2.1).
plus saquinavir or lopinavir plus mg atorvastatin daily. The lowest
Pediatric starting dose: 10 mg once daily; maximum recommended dose: 20
ritonavir) dose necessary should be used.
mg once daily (2.2).
• Digoxin: Patients should be monitored appropriately (7.5).
---------------------DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS----------------------

• Oral Contraceptives: Values for norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol may
10, 20, 40, and 80 mg tablets (3).
be increased (7.6).
• Rifampin should be simultaneously co-administered with LIPITOR
-------------------------------CONTRAINDICATIONS----------------------------- (7.4).
Active liver disease, which may include unexplained persistent elevations in
hepatic transaminase levels (4.1). -----------------------USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS------------------------
Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant (4.3). • Hepatic impairment: Plasma concentrations markedly increased in
Nursing mothers (4.4). patients with chronic alcoholic liver disease (12.3).
Hypersensitivity to any component of this medication (4.2).
See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
Revised: [6/2009]
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

1.1 Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease
1.2 Hyperlipidemia
1.3 Limitations of Use
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
2.1 Hyperlipidemia
2.2 Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Pediatric Patients
2.3 Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia
2.4 Concomitant Lipid-Lowering Therapy
2.5 Dosage in Patients With Renal Impairment
2.6 Dosage in Patients Taking Cyclosporine, Clarithromycin, Itraconazole, or a
Combination of Ritonavir plus Saquinavir or Lopinavir plus Ritonavir
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
4.1 Active Liver Disease which may include Unexplained Persistent Elevations of
Hepatic Transaminase Levels
4.2 Hypersensitivity to any Component of this Medication

4.3 Pregnancy
4.4 Nursing Mothers
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Skeletal Muscle
5.2 Liver Dysfunction
5.3 Endocrine Function
5.4 CNS Toxicity
5.5 Use in Patients with Recent Stroke or TIA
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS
6.1 Clinical Trial Adverse Experiences
6.2 Postintroduction Reports
6.3 Pediatric Patients (ages 10-17 years)
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS
7.1 Strong Inhibitors of Cytochrome P450 3A4:
Clarithromycin
Combination of Protease Inhibitors
Itraconazole
7.2 Grapefruit Juice
7.3 Cyclosporine
7.4 Rifampin or other Inducers of Cytochrome P450 3A4
7.5 Digoxin
7.6 Oral Contraceptives
7.7 Warfarin
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1 Pregnancy
8.3 Nursing Mothers
8.4 Pediatric Use
8.5 Geriatric Use
8.6 Hepatic Impairment
10 OVERDOSAGE
11 DESCRIPTION
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1 Mechanism of Action
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
14 CLINICAL STUDIES
14.2 Hyperlipidemia and Mixed Dyslipidemia
14.3 Hypertriglyceridemia
14.4 Dysbetalipoproteinemia
15 REFERENCES
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
17.1 Muscle Pain
17.2 Liver Enzymes
17.3 Pregnancy
17.4 Breastfeeding
*Sections or subsections omitted from the full prescribing information are not listed.
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Therapy with lipid-altering agents should be only one component of multiple risk factor intervention in individuals at significantly
increased risk for atherosclerotic vascular disease due to hypercholesterolemia. Drug therapy is recommended as an adjunct to diet
when the response to a diet restricted in saturated fat and cholesterol and other nonpharmacologic measures alone has been inadequate.
In patients with CHD or multiple risk factors for CHD, LIPITOR can be started simultaneously with diet.
In adult patients without clinically evident coronary heart disease, but with multiple risk factors for coronary heart disease such as age,
smoking, hypertension, low HDL-C, or a family history of early coronary heart disease, LIPITOR is indicated to:
• Reduce the risk of myocardial infarction
• Reduce the risk of stroke
• Reduce the risk for revascularization procedures and angina
In patients with type 2 diabetes, and without clinically evident coronary heart disease, but with multiple risk factors for coronary heart
disease such as retinopathy, albuminuria, smoking, or hypertension, LIPITOR is indicated to:
• Reduce the risk of myocardial infarction
• Reduce the risk of stroke
In patients with clinically evident coronary heart disease, LIPITOR is indicated to:
• Reduce the risk of non-fatal myocardial infarction
• Reduce the risk of fatal and non-fatal stroke
• Reduce the risk for revascularization procedures
• Reduce the risk of hospitalization for CHF
• Reduce the risk of angina
1.2 Hyperlipidemia
LIPITOR is indicated:
As an adjunct to diet to reduce elevated total-C, LDL-C, apo B, and TG levels and to increase HDL-C in patients with
primary hypercholesterolemia (heterozygous familial and nonfamilial) and mixed dyslipidemia (Fredrickson Types IIa and
IIb);
As an adjunct to diet for the treatment of patients with elevated serum TG levels (Fredrickson Type IV);
For the treatment of patients with primary dysbetalipoproteinemia (Fredrickson Type III) who do not respond adequately to
diet;
To reduce total-C and LDL-C in patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia as an adjunct to other lipid-
lowering treatments (e.g., LDL apheresis) or if such treatments are unavailable;
As an adjunct to diet to reduce total-C, LDL-C, and apo B levels in boys and postmenarchal girls, 10 to 17 years of age, with
heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia if after an adequate trial of diet therapy the following findings are present:
a. LDL-C remains ≥ 190 mg/dL or
b. LDL-C remains ≥ 160 mg/dL and:
• there is a positive family history of premature cardiovascular disease or
• two or more other CVD risk factors are present in the pediatric patient
1.3 Limitations of Use
LIPITOR has not been studied in conditions where the major lipoprotein abnormality is elevation of chylomicrons (Fredrickson Types
I and V).
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
2.1 Hyperlipidemia (Heterozygous Familial and Nonfamilial) and Mixed Dyslipidemia (Fredrickson Types IIa and IIb)
The recommended starting dose of LIPITOR is 10 or 20 mg once daily. Patients who require a large reduction in LDL-C (more than
45%) may be started at 40 mg once daily. The dosage range of LIPITOR is 10 to 80 mg once daily. LIPITOR can be administered as a
single dose at any time of the day, with or without food. The starting dose and maintenance doses of LIPITOR should be
individualized according to patient characteristics such as goal of therapy and response (see current NCEP Guidelines). After initiation
and/or upon titration of LIPITOR, lipid levels should be analyzed within 2 to 4 weeks and dosage adjusted accordingly.
2.2 Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Pediatric Patients (10-17 years of age)
The recommended starting dose of LIPITOR is 10 mg/day; the maximum recommended dose is 20 mg/day (doses greater than 20 mg
have not been studied in this patient population). Doses should be individualized according to the recommended goal of therapy [see
current NCEP Pediatric Panel Guidelines, Clinical Pharmacology (12), and Indications and Usage (1.2)]. Adjustments should be
made at intervals of 4 weeks or more.
The dosage of LIPITOR in patients with homozygous FH is 10 to 80 mg daily. LIPITOR should be used as an adjunct to other lipid-
lowering treatments (e.g., LDL apheresis) in these patients or if such treatments are unavailable.
2.4 Concomitant Lipid-Lowering Therapy
LIPITOR may be used with bile acid resins. The combination of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) and fibrates should generally
be used with caution [see Warnings and Precautions, Skeletal Muscle (5.1), Drug Interactions (7)].
2.5 Dosage in Patients With Renal Impairment
Renal disease does not affect the plasma concentrations nor LDL-C reduction of LIPITOR; thus, dosage adjustment in patients with
renal dysfunction is not necessary [see Warnings and Precautions, Skeletal Muscle (5.1), Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics
(12.3)].
2.6 Dosage in Patients Taking Cyclosporine, Clarithromycin, Itraconazole, or a Combination of Ritonavir plus Saquinavir
or Lopinavir plus Ritonavir
In patients taking cyclosporine, therapy should be limited to LIPITOR 10 mg once daily. In patients taking clarithromycin,
itraconazole, or in patients with HIV taking a combination of ritonavir plus saquinavir or lopinavir plus ritonavir, for doses of
LIPITOR exceeding 20 mg, appropriate clinical assessment is recommended to ensure that the lowest dose necessary of LIPITOR is
employed [see Warnings and Precautions, Skeletal Muscle (5.1), Drug Interactions (7)].
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
White, elliptical, film-coated tablets containing 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg atorvastatin calcium.
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
4.1 Active liver disease, which may include unexplained persistent elevations in hepatic transaminase levels
4.2 H
ypersensitivity to any component of this medication
4.3 P
regnancy
Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. LIPITOR may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Serum
cholesterol and triglycerides increase during normal pregnancy, and cholesterol or cholesterol derivatives are essential for fetal
development. Atherosclerosis is a chronic process and discontinuation of lipid-lowering drugs during pregnancy should have little
impact on the outcome of long-term therapy of primary hypercholesterolemia. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of
LIPITOR use during pregnancy; however in rare reports, congenital anomalies were observed following intrauterine exposure to
statins. In rat and rabbit animal reproduction studies, atorvastatin revealed no evidence of teratogenicity. LIPITOR SHOULD BE
ADMINISTERED TO WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE ONLY WHEN SUCH PATIENTS ARE HIGHLY UNLIKELY TO
CONCEIVE AND HAVE BEEN INFORMED OF THE POTENTIAL HAZARDS. If the patient becomes pregnant while taking this
drug, LIPITOR should be discontinued immediately and the patient apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus [see Use in Specific
Populations (8.1)].
4.4 Nursing mothers
It is not known whether atorvastatin is excreted into human milk; however a small amount of another drug in this class does pass into
breast milk. Because statins have the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, women who require LIPITOR treatment
should not breastfeed their infants [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Skeletal Muscle
Rare cases of rhabdomyolysis with acute renal failure secondary to myoglobinuria have been reported with LIPITOR and
with other drugs in this class. A history of renal impairment may be a risk factor for the development of rhabdomyolysis. Such
patients merit closer monitoring for skeletal muscle effects.
Atorvastatin, like other statins, occasionally causes myopathy, defined as muscle aches or muscle weakness in conjunction with
increases in creatine phosphokinase (CPK) values >10 times ULN. The concomitant use of higher doses of atorvastatin with certain
drugs such as cyclosporine and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, itraconazole, and HIV protease inhibitors) increases
the risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis.
Myopathy should be considered in any patient with diffuse myalgias, muscle tenderness or weakness, and/or marked elevation of
CPK. Patients should be advised to report promptly unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by
malaise or fever. LIPITOR therapy should be discontinued if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or myopathy is diagnosed or
suspected.
The risk of myopathy during treatment with drugs in this class is increased with concurrent administration of cyclosporine, fibric acid
derivatives, erythromycin, clarithromycin, combination of ritonavir plus saquinavir or lopinavir plus ritonavir, niacin, or azole
antifungals. Physicians considering combined therapy with LIPITOR and fibric acid derivatives, erythromycin, clarithromycin, a
combination of ritonavir plus saquinavir or lopinavir plus ritonavir, immunosuppressive drugs, azole antifungals, or lipid-modifying
doses of niacin should carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks and should carefully monitor patients for any signs or symptoms
of muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly during the initial months of therapy and during any periods of upward dosage
titration of either drug. Lower starting and maintenance doses of atorvastatin should be considered when taken concomitantly with the
aforementioned drugs (see Drug Interactions (7)). Periodic creatine phosphokinase (CPK) determinations may be considered in such
situations, but there is no assurance that such monitoring will prevent the occurrence of severe myopathy.
Prescribing recommendations for interacting agents are summarized in Table 1 [see also Dosage and Administration (2.6), Drug
Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Table 1. Drug Interactions Associated with Increased Risk of

Myopathy/Rhabdomyolysis
Interacting Agents Prescribing Recommendations
Cyclosporine Do not exceed 10 mg atorvastatin
daily
Clarithromycin, itraconazole, Caution when exceeding doses
HIV protease inhibitors > 20mg atorvastatin daily. The
(ritonavir plus saquinavir or lowest dose necessary should be
lopinavir plus used.
ritonavir)
LIPITOR therapy should be temporarily withheld or discontinued in any patient with an acute, serious condition suggestive of
a myopathy or having a risk factor predisposing to the development of renal failure secondary to rhabdomyolysis (e.g., severe
acute infection, hypotension, major surgery, trauma, severe metabolic, endocrine and electrolyte disorders, and uncontrolled
seizures).
5.2 Liver Dysfunction
Statins, like some other lipid-lowering therapies, have been associated with biochemical abnormalities of liver function. Persistent
elevations (>3 times the upper limit of normal [ULN] occurring on 2 or more occasions) in serum transaminases occurred in
0.7% of patients who received LIPITOR in clinical trials. The incidence of these abnormalities was 0.2%, 0.2%, 0.6%, and
2.3% for 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg, respectively.
One patient in clinical trials developed jaundice. Increases in liver function tests (LFT) in other patients were not associated with
jaundice or other clinical signs or symptoms. Upon dose reduction, drug interruption, or discontinuation, transaminase levels returned
to or near pretreatment levels without sequelae. Eighteen of 30 patients with persistent LFT elevations continued treatment with a
reduced dose of LIPITOR.
It is recommended that liver function tests be performed prior to and at 12 weeks following both the initiation of therapy and any
elevation of dose, and periodically (e.g., semiannually) thereafter. Liver enzyme changes generally occur in the first 3 months of
treatment with LIPITOR. Patients who develop increased transaminase levels should be monitored until the abnormalities resolve.
Should an increase in ALT or AST of >3 times ULN persist, reduction of dose or withdrawal of LIPITOR is recommended.
LIPITOR should be used with caution in patients who consume substantial quantities of alcohol and/or have a history of liver disease.
Active liver disease or unexplained persistent transaminase elevations are contraindications to the use of LIPITOR [see
Contraindications (4.1)].
5.3 Endocrine Function
Statins interfere with cholesterol synthesis and theoretically might blunt adrenal and/or gonadal steroid production. Clinical studies
have shown that LIPITOR does not reduce basal plasma cortisol concentration or impair adrenal reserve. The effects of statins on
male fertility have not been studied in adequate numbers of patients. The effects, if any, on the pituitary-gonadal axis in
premenopausal women are unknown. Caution should be exercised if a statin is administered concomitantly with drugs that may
decrease the levels or activity of endogenous steroid hormones, such as ketoconazole, spironolactone, and cimetidine.
5.4 CNS Toxicity
Brain hemorrhage was seen in a female dog treated for 3 months at 120 mg/kg/day. Brain hemorrhage and optic nerve vacuolation
were seen in another female dog that was sacrificed in moribund condition after 11 weeks of escalating doses up to 280 mg/kg/day.
The 120 mg/kg dose resulted in a systemic exposure approximately 16 times the human plasma area-under-the-curve (AUC, 0-24
hours) based on the maximum human dose of 80 mg/day. A single tonic convulsion was seen in each of 2 male dogs (one treated at 10
mg/kg/day and one at 120 mg/kg/day) in a 2-year study. No CNS lesions have been observed in mice after chronic treatment for up to
2 years at doses up to 400 mg/kg/day or in rats at doses up to 100 mg/kg/day. These doses were 6 to 11 times (mouse) and 8 to 16
times (rat) the human AUC (0-24) based on the maximum recommended human dose of 80 mg/day.
CNS vascular lesions, characterized by perivascular hemorrhages, edema, and mononuclear cell infiltration of perivascular spaces,
have been observed in dogs treated with other members of this class. A chemically similar drug in this class produced optic nerve
degeneration (Wallerian degeneration of retinogeniculate fibers) in clinically normal dogs in a dose-dependent fashion at a dose that
produced plasma drug levels about 30 times higher than the mean drug level in humans taking the highest recommended dose.
5.5 Use in Patients with Recent Stroke or TIA

In a post-hoc analysis of the Stroke Prevention by Aggressive Reduction in Cholesterol Levels (SPARCL) study where LIPITOR 80
mg vs. placebo was administered in 4,731 subjects without CHD who had a stroke or TIA within the preceding 6 months, a higher
incidence of hemorrhagic stroke was seen in the LIPITOR 80 mg group compared to placebo (55, 2.3% atorvastatin vs. 33, 1.4%
placebo; HR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.09, 2.59; p=0.0168). The incidence of fatal hemorrhagic stroke was similar across treatment groups (17
vs. 18 for the atorvastatin and placebo groups, respectively). The incidence of nonfatal hemorrhagic stroke was significantly higher in
the atorvastatin group (38, 1.6%) as compared to the placebo group (16, 0.7%). Some baseline characteristics, including hemorrhagic
and lacunar stroke on study entry, were associated with a higher incidence of hemorrhagic stroke in the atorvastatin group [see
Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the label:
Rhabdomyolysis and myopathy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
Liver enzyme abnormalities [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
6.1 Clinical Trial Adverse Experiences
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, the adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a
drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical
practice.
In the LIPITOR placebo-controlled clinical trial database of 16,066 patients (8755 LIPITOR vs. 7311 placebo; age range 10–93 years,
39% women, 91% Caucasians, 3% Blacks, 2% Asians, 4% other) with a median treatment duration of 53 weeks, 9.7% of patients on
LIPITOR and 9.5% of the patients on placebo discontinued due to adverse reactions regardless of causality. The five most common
adverse reactions in patients treated with LIPITOR that led to treatment discontinuation and occurred at a rate greater than placebo
were: myalgia (0.7%), diarrhea (0.5%), nausea (0.4%), alanine aminotransferase increase (0.4%), and hepatic enzyme increase (0.4%).
The most commonly reported adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 2% and greater than placebo) regardless of causality, in patients treated
with LIPITOR in placebo controlled trials (n=8755) were: nasopharyngitis (8.3%), arthralgia (6.9%), diarrhea (6.8%), pain in
extremity (6.0%), and urinary tract infection (5.7%).
Table 2 summarizes the frequency of clinical adverse reactions, regardless of causality, reported in ≥ 2% and at a rate greater than
placebo in patients treated with LIPITOR (n=8755), from seventeen placebo-controlled trials.
Table 2. Clinical adverse reactions occurring in > 2% in patents treated with any dose of
LIPITOR and at an incidence greater than placebo regardless of causality (% of patients).
Any dose 10 mg 20 mg 40 mg 80 mg Placebo

Adverse Reaction*
N=8755 N=3908 N=188 N=604 N=4055 N=7311
Nasopharyngitis 8.3 12.9 5.3 7.0 4.2 8.2

Arthralgia 6.9 8.9 11.7 10.6 4.3 6.5
Diarrhea 6.8 7.3 6.4 14.1 5.2 6.3
Pain in extremity 6.0 8.5 3.7 9.3 3.1 5.9
Urinary tract
5.7 6.9 6.4 8.0 4.1 5.6
infection
Dyspepsia 4.7 5.9 3.2 6.0 3.3 4.3
Nausea 4.0 3.7 3.7 7.1 3.8 3.5
Musculoskeletal
3.8 5.2 3.2 5.1 2.3 3.6
pain
Muscle Spasms 3.6 4.6 4.8 5.1 2.4 3.0
Myalgia 3.5 3.6 5.9 8.4 2.7 3.1
Insomnia 3.0 2.8 1.1 5.3 2.8 2.9
Pharyngolaryngeal
2.3 3.9 1.6 2.8 0.7 2.1
pain
* Adverse Reaction > 2% in any dose greater than placebo
Other adverse reactions reported in placebo-controlled studies include:
Body as a whole: malaise, pyrexia; Digestive system: abdominal discomfort, eructation, flatulence, hepatitis, cholestasis;
Musculoskeletal system: musculoskeletal pain, muscle fatigue, neck pain, joint swelling; Metabolic and nutritional system:
transaminases increase, liver function test abnormal, blood alkaline phosphatase increase, creatine phosphokinase increase,
hyperglycemia; Nervous system: nightmare; Respiratory system: epistaxis; Skin and appendages: urticaria; Special senses: vision
blurred, tinnitus; Urogenital system: white blood cells urine positive.
Anglo-Scandinavian Cardiac Outcomes Trial (ASCOT)
In ASCOT [see Clinical Studies (14.1)] involving 10,305 participants (age range 40–80 years, 19% women; 94.6% Caucasians, 2.6%
Africans, 1.5% South Asians, 1.3% mixed/other) treated with LIPITOR 10 mg daily (n=5,168) or placebo (n=5,137), the safety and
tolerability profile of the group treated with LIPITOR was comparable to that of the group treated with placebo during a median of 3.3
years of follow-up.
Collaborative Atorvastatin Diabetes Study (CARDS)
In CARDS [see Clinical Studies (14.1)] involving 2,838 subjects (age range 39–77 years, 32% women; 94.3% Caucasians, 2.4%
South Asians, 2.3% Afro-Caribbean, 1.0% other) with type 2 diabetes treated with LIPITOR 10 mg daily (n=1,428) or placebo
(n=1,410), there was no difference in the overall frequency of adverse reactions or serious adverse reactions between the treatment
groups during a median follow-up of 3.9 years. No cases of rhabdomyolysis were reported.
Treating to New Targets Study (TNT)
In TNT [see Clinical Studies (14.1)] involving 10,001 subjects (age range 29–78 years, 19% women; 94.1% Caucasians, 2.9% Blacks,
1.0% Asians, 2.0% other) with clinically evident CHD treated with LIPITOR 10 mg daily (n=5006) or LIPITOR 80 mg daily
(n=4995), there were more serious adverse reactions and discontinuations due to adverse reactions in the high-dose atorvastatin group
(92, 1.8%; 497, 9.9%, respectively) as compared to the low-dose group (69, 1.4%; 404, 8.1%, respectively) during a median follow-up
of 4.9 years. Persistent transaminase elevations (≥3 x ULN twice within 4–10 days) occurred in 62 (1.3%) individuals with
atorvastatin 80 mg and in nine (0.2%) individuals with atorvastatin 10 mg. Elevations of CK (≥ 10 x ULN) were low overall, but were
higher in the high-dose atorvastatin treatment group (13, 0.3%) compared to the low-dose atorvastatin group (6, 0.1%).
Incremental Decrease in Endpoints through Aggressive Lipid Lowering Study (IDEAL)
In IDEAL [see Clinical Studies (14.1)] involving 8,888 subjects (age range 26–80 years, 19% women; 99.3% Caucasians, 0.4%
Asians, 0.3% Blacks, 0.04% other) treated with LIPITOR 80 mg/day (n=4439) or simvastatin 20–40 mg daily (n=4449), there was no
difference in the overall frequency of adverse reactions or serious adverse reactions between the treatment groups during a median
follow-up of 4.8 years.
Stroke Prevention by Aggressive Reduction in Cholesterol Levels (SPARCL)

In SPARCL involving 4731 subjects (age range 21–92 years, 40% women; 93.3% Caucasians, 3.0% Blacks, 0.6% Asians, 3.1% other)
without clinically evident CHD but with a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) within the previous 6 months treated with
LIPITOR 80 mg (n=2365) or placebo (n=2366) for a median follow-up of 4.9 years, there was a higher incidence of persistent hepatic
transaminase elevations (≥ 3 x ULN twice within 4–10 days) in the atorvastatin group (0.9%) compared to placebo (0.1%). Elevations
of CK (>10 x ULN) were rare, but were higher in the atorvastatin group (0.1%) compared to placebo (0.0%). Diabetes was reported as
an adverse reaction in 144 subjects (6.1%) in the atorvastatin group and 89 subjects (3.8%) in the placebo group [see Warnings and
Precautions (5.5)].
In a post-hoc analysis, LIPITOR 80 mg reduced the incidence of ischemic stroke (218/2365, 9.2% vs. 274/2366, 11.6%) and increased
the incidence of hemorrhagic stroke (55/2365, 2.3% vs. 33/2366, 1.4%) compared to placebo. The incidence of fatal hemorrhagic
stroke was similar between groups (17 LIPITOR vs. 18 placebo). The incidence of non-fatal hemorrhagic strokes was significantly
greater in the atorvastatin group (38 non-fatal hemorrhagic strokes) as compared to the placebo group (16 non-fatal hemorrhagic
strokes). Subjects who entered the study with a hemorrhagic stroke appeared to be at increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke [7 (16%)
LIPITOR vs. 2 (4%) placebo].
There were no significant differences between the treatment groups for all-cause mortality: 216 (9.1%) in the LIPITOR 80 mg/day
group vs. 211 (8.9%) in the placebo group. The proportions of subjects who experienced cardiovascular death were numerically
smaller in the LIPITOR 80 mg group (3.3%) than in the placebo group (4.1%). The proportions of subjects who experienced non-
cardiovascular death were numerically larger in the LIPITOR 80 mg group (5.0%) than in the placebo group (4.0%).
6.2 Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of LIPITOR. Because these reactions are reported
voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal
relationship to drug exposure.
Adverse reactions associated with LIPITOR therapy reported since market introduction, that are not listed above, regardless of
causality assessment, include the following: anaphylaxis, angioneurotic edema, bullous rashes (including erythema multiforme,
Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis), rhabdomyolysis, fatigue, tendon rupture, hepatic failure, dizziness,
memory impairment, depression, and peripheral neuropathy.
6.3 Pediatric Patients (ages 10-17 years)
In a 26-week controlled study in boys and postmenarchal girls (n=140, 31% female; 92% Caucasians, 1.6% Blacks, 1.6% Asians,
4.8% other), the safety and tolerability profile of LIPITOR 10 to 20 mg daily was generally similar to that of placebo [see Clinical
Studies (14.6) and Use in Special Populations, Pediatric Use (8.4)].
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS
The risk of myopathy during treatment with statins is increased with concurrent administration of fibric acid derivatives, lipid-
modifying doses of niacin, cyclosporine, or strong CYP 3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, HIV protease inhibitors, and
itraconazole) [see Warnings and Precautions, Skeletal Muscle (5.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
7.1 Strong Inhibitors of CYP 3A4: LIPITOR is metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4. Concomitant administration of LIPITOR
with strong inhibitors of CYP 3A4 can lead to increases in plasma concentrations of atorvastatin. The extent of interaction and
potentiation of effects depend on the variability of effect on CYP 3A4.
Clarithromycin: Atorvastatin AUC was significantly increased with concomitant administration of LIPITOR 80 mg with
clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily) compared to that of LIPITOR alone [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Therefore, in
patients taking clarithromycin, caution should be used when the LIPITOR dose exceeds 20 mg [see Warnings and Precautions,
Skeletal Muscle (5.1) and Dosage and Administration (2.6)].
Combination of Protease Inhibitors: Atorvastatin AUC was significantly increased with concomitant administration of
LIPITOR 40 mg with ritonavir plus saquinavir (400 mg twice daily) or LIPITOR 20 mg with lopinavir plus ritonavir (400 mg +
100 mg twice daily) compared to that of LIPITOR alone [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Therefore, in patients taking HIV
protease inhibitors, caution should be used when the LIPITOR dose exceeds 20 mg [see Warnings and Precautions, Skeletal
Muscle (5.1) and Dosage and Administration (2.6)].
Itraconazole: Atorvastatin AUC was significantly increased with concomitant administration of LIPITOR 40 mg and
itraconazole 200 mg [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Therefore, in patients taking itraconazole, caution should be used when
the LIPITOR dose exceeds 20 mg [see Warnings and Precautions, Skeletal Muscle (5.1) and Dosage and Administration (2.6)].
7.2 Grapefruit Juice: Contains one or more components that inhibit CYP 3A4 and can increase plasma concentrations of
atorvastatin, especially with excessive grapefruit juice consumption (>1.2 liters per day).
7.3 Cyclosporine: Atorvastatin and atorvastatin-metabolites are substrates of the OATP1B1 transporter. Inhibitors of the OATP1B1
(e.g., cyclosporine) can increase the bioavailability of atorvastatin. Atorvastatin AUC was significantly increased with concomitant
administration of LIPITOR 10 mg and cyclosporine 5.2 mg/kg/day compared to that of LIPITOR alone [see Clinical Pharmacology
(12.3)]. In cases where co-administration of LIPITOR with cyclosporine is necessary, the dose of LIPITOR should not exceed 10 mg
[see Warnings and Precautions, Skeletal Muscle (5.1)].
7.4 Rifampin or other Inducers of Cytochrome P450 3A4: Concomitant administration of LIPITOR with inducers of cytochrome
P450 3A4 (e.g., efavirenz, rifampin) can lead to variable reductions in plasma concentrations of atorvastatin. Due to the dual
interaction mechanism of rifampin, simultaneous co-administration of LIPITOR with rifampin is recommended, as delayed
administration of LIPITOR after administration of rifampin has been associated with a significant reduction in atorvastatin plasma
concentrations.
7.5 Digoxin: When multiple doses of LIPITOR and digoxin were coadministered, steady state plasma digoxin concentrations
increased by approximately 20%. Patients taking digoxin should be monitored appropriately.
7.6 Oral Contraceptives: Co-administration of LIPITOR and an oral contraceptive increased AUC values for norethindrone and
ethinyl estradiol [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. These increases should be considered when selecting an oral contraceptive for a
woman taking LIPITOR.
7.7 Warfarin: LIPITOR had no clinically significant effect on prothrombin time when administered to patients receiving chronic
warfarin treatment.
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1 Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category X
LIPITOR is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant. Serum cholesterol and triglycerides increase during normal
pregnancy. Lipid lowering drugs offer no benefit during pregnancy because cholesterol and cholesterol derivatives are needed for
normal fetal development. Atherosclerosis is a chronic process, and discontinuation of lipid-lowering drugs during pregnancy should
have little impact on long-term outcomes of primary hypercholesterolemia therapy.
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of atorvastatin use during pregnancy. There have been rare reports of congenital
anomalies following intrauterine exposure to statins. In a review of about 100 prospectively followed pregnancies in women exposed
to other statins, the incidences of congenital anomalies, spontaneous abortions, and fetal deaths/stillbirths did not exceed the rate
expected in the general population. However, this study was only able to exclude a three-to-four-fold increased risk of congenital
anomalies over background incidence. In 89% of these cases, drug treatment started before pregnancy and stopped during the first
trimester when pregnancy was identified.
Atorvastatin crosses the rat placenta and reaches a level in fetal liver equivalent to that of maternal plasma. Atorvastatin was not
teratogenic in rats at doses up to 300 mg/kg/day or in rabbits at doses up to 100 mg/kg/day. These doses resulted in multiples of about
30 times (rat) or 20 times (rabbit) the human exposure based on surface area (mg/m2) [see Contraindications, Pregnancy (4.3)].
In a study in rats given 20, 100, or 225 mg/kg/day, from gestation day 7 through to lactation day 21 (weaning), there was decreased
pup survival at birth, neonate, weaning, and maturity in pups of mothers dosed with 225 mg/kg/day. Body weight was decreased on
days 4 and 21 in pups of mothers dosed at 100 mg/kg/day; pup body weight was decreased at birth and at days 4, 21, and 91 at 225
mg/kg/day. Pup development was delayed (rotorod performance at 100 mg/kg/day and acoustic startle at 225 mg/kg/day; pinnae
detachment and eye-opening at 225 mg/kg/day). These doses correspond to 6 times (100 mg/kg) and 22 times (225 mg/kg) the human
AUC at 80 mg/day.
Statins may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. LIPITOR should be administered to women of childbearing
potential only when such patients are highly unlikely to conceive and have been informed of the potential hazards. If the woman
becomes pregnant while taking LIPITOR, it should be discontinued immediately and the patient advised again as to the potential
hazards to the fetus and the lack of known clinical benefit with continued use during pregnancy.
8.3 Nursing Mothers
It is not known whether atorvastatin is excreted in human milk, but a small amount of another drug in this class does pass into breast
milk. Nursing rat pups had plasma and liver drug levels of 50% and 40%, respectively, of that in their mother’s milk. Animal breast
milk drug levels may not accurately reflect human breast milk levels. Because another drug in this class passes into human milk and
because statins have a potential to cause serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, women requiring LIPITOR treatment should be
advised not to nurse their infants [see Contraindications (4)].
8.4 Pediatric Use
Safety and effectiveness in patients 10-17 years of age with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia have been evaluated in a
controlled clinical trial of 6 months’ duration in adolescent boys and postmenarchal girls. Patients treated with LIPITOR had an
adverse experience profile generally similar to that of patients treated with placebo. The most common adverse experiences observed
in both groups, regardless of causality assessment, were infections. Doses greater than 20 mg have not been studied in this patient
population. In this limited controlled study, there was no significant effect on growth or sexual maturation in boys or on menstrual
cycle length in girls [see Clinical Studies (14.6); Adverse Reactions, Pediatric Patients (ages 10-17 years) (6.3); and Dosage and
Administration, Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Pediatric Patients (10-17 years of age) (2.2)]. Adolescent females
should be counseled on appropriate contraceptive methods while on LIPITOR therapy [see Contraindications, Pregnancy (4.3) and
Use in Specific Populations, Pregnancy (8.1)]. LIPITOR has not been studied in controlled clinical trials involving pre-pubertal
patients or patients younger than 10 years of age.
Clinical efficacy with doses up to 80 mg/day for 1 year have been evaluated in an uncontrolled study of patients with homozygous FH
including 8 pediatric patients [see Clinical Studies, Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia (14.5)].
8.5 Geriatric Use
Of the 39,828 patients who received LIPITOR in clinical studies, 15,813 (40%) were ≥65 years old and 2,800 (7%) were ≥75 years
old. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported
clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some
older adults cannot be ruled out. Since advanced age (≥65 years) is a predisposing factor for myopathy, LIPITOR should be prescribed
with caution in the elderly.
8.6 Hepatic Impairment
Lipitor is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease which may include unexplained persistent elevations in hepatic
transaminase levels [see Contraindications (4) and Pharmacokinetics (12.3)].
10 OVERDOSAGE
There is no specific treatment for LIPITOR overdosage. In the event of an overdose, the patient should be treated symptomatically,
and supportive measures instituted as required. Due to extensive drug binding to plasma proteins, hemodialysis is not expected to
significantly enhance LIPITOR clearance.
11 DESCRIPTION
LIPITOR is a synthetic lipid-lowering agent. Atorvastatin is an inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA)

reductase. This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, an early and rate-limiting step in cholesterol
biosynthesis.
Atorvastatin calcium is [R-(R*, R*)]-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-ß, δ-dihydroxy-5-(1-methylethyl)-3-phenyl-4-[(phenylamino)carbonyl]-1H

pyrrole-1-heptanoic acid, calcium salt (2:1) trihydrate. The empirical formula of atorvastatin calcium is (C33H34 FN2O5)2Ca•3H2O and
its molecular weight is 1209.42. Its structural formula is:
Atorvastatin calcium is a white to off-white crystalline powder that is insoluble in aqueous solutions of pH 4 and below. Atorvastatin
calcium is very slightly soluble in distilled water, pH 7.4 phosphate buffer, and acetonitrile; slightly soluble in ethanol; and freely
soluble in methanol.
LIPITOR Tablets for oral administration contain 10, 20, 40, or 80 mg atorvastatin and the following inactive ingredients: calcium
carbonate, USP; candelilla wax, FCC; croscarmellose sodium, NF; hydroxypropyl cellulose, NF; lactose monohydrate, NF;
magnesium stearate, NF; microcrystalline cellulose, NF; Opadry White YS-1-7040 (hypromellose, polyethylene glycol, talc, titanium
dioxide); polysorbate 80, NF; simethicone emulsion.
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1 Mechanism of Action
LIPITOR is a selective, competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme that converts 3-hydroxy-3
methylglutaryl-coenzyme A to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. Cholesterol and triglycerides circulate in the
bloodstream as part of lipoprotein complexes. With ultracentrifugation, these complexes separate into HDL (high-density lipoprotein),
IDL (intermediate-density lipoprotein), LDL (low-density lipoprotein), and VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) fractions.
Triglycerides (TG) and cholesterol in the liver are incorporated into VLDL and released into the plasma for delivery to peripheral
tissues. LDL is formed from VLDL and is catabolized primarily through the high-affinity LDL receptor. Clinical and pathologic
studies show that elevated plasma levels of total cholesterol (total-C), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), and apolipoprotein B (apo B)
promote human atherosclerosis and are risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease, while increased levels of HDL-C are
associated with a decreased cardiovascular risk.
In animal models, LIPITOR lowers plasma cholesterol and lipoprotein levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase and cholesterol
synthesis in the liver and by increasing the number of hepatic LDL receptors on the cell surface to enhance uptake and catabolism of
LDL; LIPITOR also reduces LDL production and the number of LDL particles. LIPITOR reduces LDL-C in some patients with
homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), a population that rarely responds to other lipid-lowering medication(s).
A variety of clinical studies have demonstrated that elevated levels of total-C, LDL-C, and apo B (a membrane complex for LDL-C)
promote human atherosclerosis. Similarly, decreased levels of HDL-C (and its transport complex, apo A) are associated with the
development of atherosclerosis. Epidemiologic investigations have established that cardiovascular morbidity and mortality vary
directly with the level of total-C and LDL-C, and inversely with the level of HDL-C.
LIPITOR reduces total-C, LDL-C, and apo B in patients with homozygous and heterozygous FH, nonfamilial forms of
hypercholesterolemia, and mixed dyslipidemia. LIPITOR also reduces VLDL-C and TG and produces variable increases in HDL-C
and apolipoprotein A-1. LIPITOR reduces total-C, LDL-C, VLDL-C, apo B, TG, and non-HDL-C, and increases HDL-C in patients
with isolated hypertriglyceridemia. LIPITOR reduces intermediate density lipoprotein cholesterol (IDL-C) in patients with
dysbetalipoproteinemia.
Like LDL, cholesterol-enriched triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, including VLDL, intermediate density lipoprotein (IDL), and remnants,
can also promote atherosclerosis. Elevated plasma triglycerides are frequently found in a triad with low HDL-C levels and small LDL
particles, as well as in association with non-lipid metabolic risk factors for coronary heart disease. As such, total plasma TG has not
consistently been shown to be an independent risk factor for CHD. Furthermore, the independent effect of raising HDL or lowering
TG on the risk of coronary and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been determined.
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
LIPITOR, as well as some of its metabolites, are pharmacologically active in humans. The liver is the primary site of action and the
principal site of cholesterol synthesis and LDL clearance. Drug dosage, rather than systemic drug concentration, correlates better with
LDL-C reduction. Individualization of drug dosage should be based on therapeutic response [see Dosage and Administration (2)].
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: LIPITOR is rapidly absorbed after oral administration; maximum plasma concentrations occur within 1 to 2 hours.
Extent of absorption increases in proportion to LIPITOR dose. The absolute bioavailability of atorvastatin (parent drug) is
approximately 14% and the systemic availability of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity is approximately 30%. The low systemic
availability is attributed to presystemic clearance in gastrointestinal mucosa and/or hepatic first-pass metabolism. Although food
decreases the rate and extent of drug absorption by approximately 25% and 9%, respectively, as assessed by Cmax and AUC, LDL-C
reduction is similar whether LIPITOR is given with or without food. Plasma LIPITOR concentrations are lower (approximately 30%
for Cmax and AUC) following evening drug administration compared with morning. However, LDL-C reduction is the same
regardless of the time of day of drug administration [see Dosage and Administration (2)].
Distribution: Mean volume of distribution of LIPITOR is approximately 381 liters. LIPITOR is ≥98% bound to plasma proteins. A
blood/plasma ratio of approximately 0.25 indicates poor drug penetration into red blood cells. Based on observations in rats, LIPITOR
is likely to be secreted in human milk [see Contraindications, Nursing Mothers (4.4) and Use in Specific Populations, Nursing
Mothers (8.3)].
Metabolism: LIPITOR is extensively metabolized to ortho- and parahydroxylated derivatives and various beta-oxidation products. In
vitro inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase by ortho- and parahydroxylated metabolites is equivalent to that of LIPITOR. Approximately
70% of circulating inhibitory activity for HMG-CoA reductase is attributed to active metabolites. In vitro studies suggest the
importance of LIPITOR metabolism by cytochrome P450 3A4, consistent with increased plasma concentrations of LIPITOR in
humans following co-administration with erythromycin, a known inhibitor of this isozyme [see Drug Interactions (7.1)]. In animals,
the ortho-hydroxy metabolite undergoes further glucuronidation.
Excretion: LIPITOR and its metabolites are eliminated primarily in bile following hepatic and/or extra-hepatic metabolism; however,
the drug does not appear to undergo enterohepatic recirculation. Mean plasma elimination half-life of LIPITOR in humans is
approximately 14 hours, but the half-life of inhibitory activity for HMG-CoA reductase is 20 to 30 hours due to the contribution of
active metabolites. Less than 2% of a dose of LIPITOR is recovered in urine following oral administration.
Specific Populations
Geriatric: Plasma concentrations of LIPITOR are higher (approximately 40% for Cmax and 30% for AUC) in healthy elderly
subjects (age ≥65 years) than in young adults. Clinical data suggest a greater degree of LDL-lowering at any dose of drug in the
elderly patient population compared to younger adults [see Use in Specific Populations, Geriatric Use (8.5)].
Pediatric: Pharmacokinetic data in the pediatric population are not available.
Gender: Plasma concentrations of LIPITOR in women differ from those in men (approximately 20% higher for Cmax and 10% lower
for AUC); however, there is no clinically significant difference in LDL-C reduction with LIPITOR between men and women.
Renal Impairment: Renal disease has no influence on the plasma concentrations or LDL-C reduction of LIPITOR; thus, dose
adjustment in patients with renal dysfunction is not necessary [see Dosage and Administration, Dosage in Patients with Renal
Impairment (2.5), Warnings and Precautions, Skeletal Muscle (5.1)].
Hemodialysis: While studies have not been conducted in patients with end-stage renal disease, hemodialysis is not expected to
significantly enhance clearance of LIPITOR since the drug is extensively bound to plasma proteins.
Hepatic Impairment: In patients with chronic alcoholic liver disease, plasma concentrations of LIPITOR are markedly increased.
Cmax and AUC are each 4-fold greater in patients with Childs-Pugh A disease. Cmax and AUC are approximately 16-fold and 11
fold increased, respectively, in patients with Childs-Pugh B disease [see Contraindications (4.1)].
TABLE 3. Effect of Co-administered Drugs on the Pharmacokinetics of Atorvastatin
Co-administered drug and Atorvastatin
dosing regimen
Dose (mg) Change in Change in
AUC& Cmax&
↑ 8.7 fold ↑10.7 fold
#
Cyclosporine 5.2 mg/kg/day, stable dose 10 mg QD for 28 days
↑ 5.9 fold ↑ 4.7 fold
#
Lopinavir 400 mg BID/ ritonavir 100 mg 20 mg QD for 4 days
BID, 14 days
↑ 3.9 fold ↑ 4.3 fold
#
Ritonavir 400 mg BID/ saquinavir 40 mg QD for 4 days
400mg BID, 15 days
↑ 4.4 fold ↑ 5.4 fold
#
Clarithromycin 500 mg BID, 9 days 80 mg QD for 8 days
↑ 3.3 fold ↑ 20%
#
Itraconazole 200 mg QD, 4 days 40 mg SD
↑ 37% ↑ 16%
#
Grapefruit Juice, 240 mL QD * 40 mg, SD
Diltiazem 240 mg QD, 28 days 40 mg, SD ↑ 51% No change
Erythromycin 500 mg QID, 7 days 10 mg, SD ↑ 33% ↑ 38%
Amlodipine 10 mg, single dose 80 mg, SD ↑ 15% ↓ 12 %
Cimetidine 300 mg QD, 4 weeks 10 mg QD for 2 weeks ↓ Less than 1% ↓ 11%
Colestipol 10 mg BID, 28 weeks 40 mg QD for 28 weeks Not determined ↓ 26%**
Maalox TC® 30 mL QD, 17 days 10 mg QD for 15 days ↓ 33% ↓ 34%
Efavirenz 600 mg QD, 14 days 10 mg for 3 days ↓ 41% ↓ 1%
↑ 30% ↑ 2.7 fold
#
Rifampin 600 mg QD, 7 days (co 40 mg SD
administered) †
↓ 80% ↓ 40%
#
Rifampin 600 mg QD, 5 days (doses 40 mg SD
separated) †
↓ Less
#
Gemfibrozil 600mg BID, 7 days 40mg SD ↑ 35%
than 1%
#
Fenofibrate 160mg QD, 7 days 40mg SD ↑ 3% ↑ 2%
&
Data given as x-fold change represent a simple ratio between co-administration and atorvastatin alone (i.e., 1-fold = no
change). Data given as % change represent % difference relative to atorvastatin alone (i.e., 0% = no change).
#
See Sections 5.1 and 7 for clinical significance.
* Greater increases in AUC (up to 2.5 fold) and/or Cmax (up to 71%) have been reported with excessive grapefruit
consumption (≥ 750 mL - 1.2 liters per day).
** Single sample taken 8-16 h post dose.
†
Due to the dual interaction mechanism of rifampin, simultaneous co-administration of atorvastatin with rifampin is
recommended, as delayed administration of atorvastatin after administration of rifampin has been associated with a
significant reduction in atorvastatin plasma concentrations.
TABLE 4. Effect of Atorvastatin on the Pharmacokinetics of Co-administered Drugs

Atorvastatin Co-administered drug and dosing regimen
Drug/Dose (mg) Change in AUC Change in Cmax
80 mg QD for 15 days Antipyrine, 600 mg SD ↑ 3% ↓ 11%
↑ 15% ↑ 20 %
#
80 mg QD for 14 days Digoxin 0.25 mg QD, 20 days
40 mg QD for 22 days Oral contraceptive QD, 2 months
- norethindrone 1mg ↑ 28% ↑ 23%
- ethinyl estradiol 35μg ↑ 19% ↑ 30%
#
See Section 7 for clinical significance.
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

In a 2-year carcinogenicity study in rats at dose levels of 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg/day, 2 rare tumors were found in muscle in high-dose
females: in one, there was a rhabdomyosarcoma and, in another, there was a fibrosarcoma. This dose represents a plasma AUC (0-24)
value of approximately 16 times the mean human plasma drug exposure after an 80 mg oral dose.
A 2-year carcinogenicity study in mice given 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg/day resulted in a significant increase in liver adenomas in high-
dose males and liver carcinomas in high-dose females. These findings occurred at plasma AUC (0–24) values of approximately 6
times the mean human plasma drug exposure after an 80 mg oral dose.
In vitro, atorvastatin was not mutagenic or clastogenic in the following tests with and without metabolic activation: the Ames test with
Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli, the HGPRT forward mutation assay in Chinese hamster lung cells, and the
chromosomal aberration assay in Chinese hamster lung cells. Atorvastatin was negative in the in vivo mouse micronucleus test.
Studies in rats performed at doses up to 175 mg/kg (15 times the human exposure) produced no changes in fertility. There was aplasia
and aspermia in the epididymis of 2 of 10 rats treated with 100 mg/kg/day of atorvastatin for 3 months (16 times the human AUC at
the 80 mg dose); testis weights were significantly lower at 30 and 100 mg/kg and epididymal weight was lower at 100 mg/kg. Male
rats given 100 mg/kg/day for 11 weeks prior to mating had decreased sperm motility, spermatid head concentration, and increased
abnormal sperm. Atorvastatin caused no adverse effects on semen parameters, or reproductive organ histopathology in dogs given
doses of 10, 40, or 120 mg/kg for two years.
14 CLINICAL STUDIES
In the Anglo-Scandinavian Cardiac Outcomes Trial (ASCOT), the effect of LIPITOR on fatal and non-fatal coronary heart disease
was assessed in 10,305 hypertensive patients 40–80 years of age (mean of 63 years), without a previous myocardial infarction and
with TC levels ≤251 mg/dL (6.5 mmol/L). Additionally, all patients had at least 3 of the following cardiovascular risk factors: male
gender (81.1%), age >55 years (84.5%), smoking (33.2%), diabetes (24.3%), history of CHD in a first-degree relative (26%), TC:HDL
>6 (14.3%), peripheral vascular disease (5.1%), left ventricular hypertrophy (14.4%), prior cerebrovascular event (9.8%), specific
ECG abnormality (14.3%), proteinuria/albuminuria (62.4%). In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, patients were treated with
anti-hypertensive therapy (Goal BP <140/90 mm Hg for non-diabetic patients; <130/80 mm Hg for diabetic patients) and allocated to
either LIPITOR 10 mg daily (n=5168) or placebo (n=5137), using a covariate adaptive method which took into account the
distribution of nine baseline characteristics of patients already enrolled and minimized the imbalance of those characteristics across
the groups. Patients were followed for a median duration of 3.3 years.
The effect of 10 mg/day of LIPITOR on lipid levels was similar to that seen in previous clinical trials.
LIPITOR significantly reduced the rate of coronary events [either fatal coronary heart disease (46 events in the placebo group vs. 40
events in the LIPITOR group) or non-fatal MI (108 events in the placebo group vs. 60 events in the LIPITOR group)] with a relative
risk reduction of 36% [(based on incidences of 1.9% for LIPITOR vs. 3.0% for placebo), p=0.0005 (see Figure 1)]. The risk reduction
was consistent regardless of age, smoking status, obesity, or presence of renal dysfunction. The effect of LIPITOR was seen
regardless of baseline LDL levels. Due to the small number of events, results for women were inconclusive.
Figure 1: Effect of LIPITOR 10 mg/day on Cumulative Incidence of Non-Fatal Myocardial Infarction or Coronary Heart
Disease Death (in ASCOT-LLA)
LIPITOR also significantly decreased the relative risk for revascularization procedures by 42%. Although the reduction of fatal and
non-fatal strokes did not reach a pre-defined significance level (p=0.01), a favorable trend was observed with a 26% relative risk
reduction (incidences of 1.7% for LIPITOR and 2.3% for placebo). There was no significant difference between the treatment groups
for death due to cardiovascular causes (p=0.51) or noncardiovascular causes (p=0.17).
In the Collaborative Atorvastatin Diabetes Study (CARDS), the effect of LIPITOR on cardiovascular disease (CVD) endpoints was
assessed in 2838 subjects (94% white, 68% male), ages 40–75 with type 2 diabetes based on WHO criteria, without prior history of
cardiovascular disease and with LDL ≤ 160 mg/dL and TG ≤ 600 mg/dL. In addition to diabetes, subjects had 1 or more of the
following risk factors: current smoking (23%), hypertension (80%), retinopathy (30%), or microalbuminuria (9%) or
macroalbuminuria (3%). No subjects on hemodialysis were enrolled in the study. In this multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind
clinical trial, subjects were randomly allocated to either LIPITOR 10 mg daily (1429) or placebo (1411) in a 1:1 ratio and were
followed for a median duration of 3.9 years. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of any of the major cardiovascular events:
myocardial infarction, acute CHD death, unstable angina, coronary revascularization, or stroke. The primary analysis was the time to
first occurrence of the primary endpoint.
Baseline characteristics of subjects were: mean age of 62 years, mean HbA1c 7.7%; median LDL-C 120 mg/dL; median TC 207
mg/dL; median TG 151 mg/dL; median HDL-C 52 mg/dL.
The effect of LIPITOR 10 mg/day on lipid levels was similar to that seen in previous clinical trials.
LIPITOR significantly reduced the rate of major cardiovascular events (primary endpoint events) (83 events in the LIPITOR group vs.
127 events in the placebo group) with a relative risk reduction of 37%, HR 0.63, 95% CI (0.48, 0.83) (p=0.001) (see Figure 2). An
effect of LIPITOR was seen regardless of age, sex, or baseline lipid levels.
LIPITOR significantly reduced the risk of stroke by 48% (21 events in the LIPITOR group vs. 39 events in the placebo group), HR
0.52, 95% CI (0.31, 0.89) (p=0.016) and reduced the risk of MI by 42% (38 events in the LIPITOR group vs. 64 events in the placebo
group), HR 0.58, 95.1% CI (0.39, 0.86) (p=0.007). There was no significant difference between the treatment groups for angina,
revascularization procedures, and acute CHD death.
There were 61 deaths in the LIPITOR group vs. 82 deaths in the placebo group (HR 0.73, p=0.059).
Figure 2: Effect of LIPITOR 10 mg/day on Time to Occurrence of Major Cardiovascular Event (myocardial infarction,
acute CHD death, unstable angina, coronary revascularization, or stroke) in CARDS
15
Placebo
zard (%)
Hazar Atorvastatin
10
tive Haza
lative
Cumulativ
Cum
HR 0.63 (0.48-0.83) p=0.001

0
1 2 3 4 5
Time to First Primary Endpo
dpoint Thro
hrough
ugh Four (4) Year
ears of Follow-up (Years)
rs)
In the Treating to New Targets Study (TNT), the effect of LIPITOR 80 mg/day vs. LIPITOR 10 mg/day on the reduction in
cardiovascular events was assessed in 10,001 subjects (94% white, 81% male, 38% ≥65 years) with clinically evident coronary heart
disease who had achieved a target LDL-C level <130 mg/dL after completing an 8-week, open-label, run-in period with LIPITOR 10
mg/day. Subjects were randomly assigned to either 10 mg/day or 80 mg/day of LIPITOR and followed for a median duration of 4.9
years. The primary endpoint was the time-to-first occurrence of any of the following major cardiovascular events (MCVE): death due
to CHD, non-fatal myocardial infarction, resuscitated cardiac arrest, and fatal and non-fatal stroke. The mean LDL-C, TC, TG, non-
HDL, and HDL cholesterol levels at 12 weeks were 73, 145, 128, 98, and 47 mg/dL during treatment with 80 mg of LIPITOR and 99,
177, 152, 129, and 48 mg/dL during treatment with 10 mg of LIPITOR.
Treatment with LIPITOR 80 mg/day significantly reduced the rate of MCVE (434 events in the 80 mg/day group vs. 548 events in the
10 mg/day group) with a relative risk reduction of 22%, HR 0.78, 95% CI (0.69, 0.89), p=0.0002 (see Figure 3 and Table 5). The
overall risk reduction was consistent regardless of age (<65, ≥65) or gender.
Figure 3: Effect of LIPITOR 80 mg/day vs. 10 mg/day on Time to Occurrence of Major Cardiovascular Events (TNT)
0.2
Subjects (%) Experiencing Event
Atorvastatin 10 mg
Atorvastatin 80 mg
0.1
HR 0.78 (0.69-0.89) P=0.0002

0
0 1 2 3 4 5
Time to First Major Cardiovascular Endpoint (Years)
TABLE 5. Overview of Efficacy Results in TNT
Endpoint Atorvastatin Atorvastatin

10 mg 80 mg HRa (95%CI)
(N=5006) (N=4995)
PRIMARY ENDPOINT n (%) n (%)
First major cardiovascular endpoint 548 (10.9) 434 (8.7) 0.78 (0.69, 0.89)
Components of the Primary Endpoint
CHD death 127 (2.5) 101 (2.0) 0.80 (0.61, 1.03)
Non-fatal, non-procedure related MI 308 (6.2) 243 (4.9) 0.78 (0.66, 0.93)
Resuscitated cardiac arrest 26 (0.5) 25 (0.5) 0.96 (0.56, 1.67)
Stroke (fatal and non-fatal) 155 (3.1) 117 (2.3) 0.75 (0.59, 0.96)
SECONDARY ENDPOINTS*
First CHF with hospitalization 164 (3.3) 122 (2.4) 0.74 (0.59, 0.94)
First PVD endpoint 282 (5.6) 275 (5.5) 0.97 (0.83, 1.15)
First CABG or other coronary 904 (18.1) 667 (13.4) 0.72 (0.65, 0.80)
revascularization procedureb
First documented angina endpointb 615 (12.3) 545 (10.9) 0.88 (0.79, 0.99)
All-cause mortality 282 (5.6) 284 (5.7) 1.01 (0.85, 1.19)
Components of All-Cause Mortality
Cardiovascular death 155 (3.1) 126 (2.5) 0.81 (0.64, 1.03)
Noncardiovascular death 127 (2.5) 158 (3.2) 1.25 (0.99, 1.57)
Cancer death 75 (1.5) 85 (1.7) 1.13 (0.83, 1.55)
Other non-CV death 43 (0.9) 58 (1.2) 1.35 (0.91, 2.00)
Suicide, homicide, and other 9 (0.2) 15 (0.3) 1.67 (0.73, 3.82)
traumatic non-CV death
a Atorvastatin 80 mg: atorvastatin 10 mg
b Component of other secondary endpoints
* Secondary endpoints not included in primary endpoint

HR=hazard ratio; CHD=coronary heart disease; CI=confidence interval; MI=myocardial infarction; CHF=congestive heart failure;
CV=cardiovascular; PVD=peripheral vascular disease; CABG=coronary artery bypass graft
Confidence intervals for the Secondary Endpoints were not adjusted for multiple comparisons
Of the events that comprised the primary efficacy endpoint, treatment with LIPITOR 80 mg/day significantly reduced the rate of non
fatal, non-procedure related MI and fatal and non-fatal stroke, but not CHD death or resuscitated cardiac arrest (Table 5). Of the
predefined secondary endpoints, treatment with LIPITOR 80 mg/day significantly reduced the rate of coronary revascularization,
angina, and hospitalization for heart failure, but not peripheral vascular disease. The reduction in the rate of CHF with hospitalization
was only observed in the 8% of patients with a prior history of CHF.
There was no significant difference between the treatment groups for all-cause mortality (Table 5). The proportions of subjects who
experienced cardiovascular death, including the components of CHD death and fatal stroke, were numerically smaller in the LIPITOR
80 mg group than in the LIPITOR 10 mg treatment group. The proportions of subjects who experienced noncardiovascular death were
numerically larger in the LIPITOR 80 mg group than in the LIPITOR 10 mg treatment group.
In the Incremental Decrease in Endpoints Through Aggressive Lipid Lowering Study (IDEAL), treatment with LIPITOR 80 mg/day
was compared to treatment with simvastatin 20–40 mg/day in 8,888 subjects up to 80 years of age with a history of CHD to assess
whether reduction in CV risk could be achieved. Patients were mainly male (81%), white (99%) with an average age of 61.7 years,
and an average LDL-C of 121.5 mg/dL at randomization; 76% were on statin therapy. In this prospective, randomized, open-label,
blinded endpoint (PROBE) trial with no run-in period, subjects were followed for a median duration of 4.8 years. The mean LDL-C,
TC, TG, HDL, and non-HDL cholesterol levels at Week 12 were 78, 145, 115, 45, and 100 mg/dL during treatment with 80 mg of
LIPITOR and 105, 179, 142, 47, and 132 mg/dL during treatment with 20–40 mg of simvastatin.
There was no significant difference between the treatment groups for the primary endpoint, the rate of first major coronary event (fatal
CHD, non-fatal MI, and resuscitated cardiac arrest): 411 (9.3%) in the LIPITOR 80 mg/day group vs. 463 (10.4%) in the simvastatin
20–40 mg/day group, HR 0.89, 95% CI ( 0.78, 1.01), p=0.07.
There were no significant differences between the treatment groups for all-cause mortality: 366 (8.2%) in the LIPITOR 80 mg/day
group vs. 374 (8.4%) in the simvastatin 20–40 mg/day group. The proportions of subjects who experienced CV or non-CV death were
similar for the LIPITOR 80 mg group and the simvastatin 20–40 mg group.
14.2 Hyperlipidemia (Heterozygous Familial and Nonfamilial) and Mixed Dyslipidemia (Fredrickson Types IIa and IIb)
LIPITOR reduces total-C, LDL-C, VLDL-C, apo B, and TG, and increases HDL-C in patients with hyperlipidemia and mixed
dyslipidemia. Therapeutic response is seen within 2 weeks, and maximum response is usually achieved within 4 weeks and maintained
during chronic therapy.
LIPITOR is effective in a wide variety of patient populations with hyperlipidemia, with and without hypertriglyceridemia, in men and
women, and in the elderly.
In two multicenter, placebo-controlled, dose-response studies in patients with hyperlipidemia, LIPITOR given as a single dose over 6
weeks, significantly reduced total-C, LDL-C, apo B, and TG. (Pooled results are provided in Table 6.)
TABLE 6. Dose Response in Patients With Primary Hyperlipidemia (Adjusted Mean % Change From Baseline)a
Dose N TC LDL-C Apo B TG HDL-C Non-HDL

C/ HDL-C
Placebo 21 4 4 3 10 -3 7
10 22 -29 -39 -32 -19 6 -34
20 20 -33 -43 -35 -26 9 -41
40 21 -37 -50 -42 -29 6 -45
80 23 -45 -60 -50 -37 5 -53
a
Results are pooled from 2 dose-response studies.
In patients with Fredrickson Types IIa and IIb hyperlipoproteinemia pooled from 24 controlled trials, the median (25th and 75th
percentile) percent changes from baseline in HDL-C for LIPITOR 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg were 6.4 (-1.4, 14), 8.7 (0, 17), 7.8 (0, 16),
and 5.1 (-2.7, 15), respectively. Additionally, analysis of the pooled data demonstrated consistent and significant decreases in total-C,
LDL-C, TG, total-C/HDL-C, and LDL-C/HDL-C.
In three multicenter, double-blind studies in patients with hyperlipidemia, LIPITOR was compared to other statins. After
randomization, patients were treated for 16 weeks with either LIPITOR 10 mg per day or a fixed dose of the comparative agent (Table
7).
TABLE 7. Mean Percentage Change From Baseline at Endpoint (Double-Blind, Randomized, Active-Controlled Trials)
Treatment Non-HDL-C/
(Daily Dose) N Total-C LDL-C Apo B TG HDL-C HDL-C
Study 1
LIPITOR 10 mg 707 -27a -36a -28a -17a +7 -37a
Lovastatin 20 mg 191 -19 -27 -20 -6 +7 -28
95% CI for Diff1 -9.2, -6.5 -10.7, -7.1 -10.0, -6.5 -15.2, -7.1 -1.7, 2.0 -11.1, -7.1
Study 2
LIPITOR 10 mg 222 -25b -35b -27b -17b +6 -36b
Pravastatin 20 mg 77 -17 -23 -17 -9 +8 -28
95% CI for Diff1 -10.8, -6.1 -14.5, -8.2 -13.4, -7.4 -14.1, -0.7 -4.9, 1.6 -11.5, -4.1
Study 3
LIPITOR 10 mg 132 -29c -37c -34c -23c +7 -39c
Simvastatin 10 mg 45 -24 -30 -30 -15 +7 -33
95% CI for Diff1 -8.7, -2.7 -10.1, -2.6 -8.0, -1.1 -15.1, -0.7 -4.3, 3.9 -9.6, -1.9
1
A negative value for the 95% CI for the difference between treatments favors LIPITOR for all except HDL-C, for which a positive
value favors LIPITOR. If the range does not include 0, this indicates a statistically significant difference.
a
Significantly different from lovastatin, ANCOVA, p ≤0.05
b
Significantly different from pravastatin, ANCOVA, p ≤0.05
c
Significantly different from simvastatin, ANCOVA, p ≤0.05
The impact on clinical outcomes of the differences in lipid-altering effects between treatments shown in Table 7 is not known. Table 7
does not contain data comparing the effects of LIPITOR 10 mg and higher doses of lovastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin. The drugs
compared in the studies summarized in the table are not necessarily interchangeable.
14.3 Hypertriglyceridemia (Fredrickson Type IV)
The response to LIPITOR in 64 patients with isolated hypertriglyceridemia treated across several clinical trials is shown in the table
below (Table 8). For the LIPITOR-treated patients, median (min, max) baseline TG level was 565 (267–1502).
TABLE 8. Combined Patients With Isolated Elevated TG: Median (min, max) Percentage Change From Baseline
Placebo LIPITOR 10 mg LIPITOR 20 mg LIPITOR 80 mg

(N=12) (N=37) (N=13) (N=14)
Triglycerides -12.4 (-36.6, 82.7) -41.0 (-76.2, 49.4) -38.7 (-62.7, 29.5) -51.8 (-82.8, 41.3)
Total-C -2.3 (-15.5, 24.4) -28.2 (-44.9, -6.8) -34.9 (-49.6, -15.2) -44.4 (-63.5, -3.8)
LDL-C 3.6 (-31.3, 31.6) -26.5 (-57.7, 9.8) -30.4 (-53.9, 0.3) -40.5 (-60.6, -13.8)
HDL-C 3.8 (-18.6, 13.4) 13.8 (-9.7, 61.5) 11.0 (-3.2, 25.2) 7.5 (-10.8, 37.2)
VLDL-C -1.0 (-31.9, 53.2) -48.8 (-85.8, 57.3) -44.6 (-62.2, -10.8) -62.0 (-88.2, 37.6)
non-HDL-C -2.8 (-17.6, 30.0) -33.0 (-52.1, -13.3) -42.7 (-53.7, -17.4) -51.5 (-72.9, -4.3)
14.4 Dysbetalipoproteinemia (Fredrickson Type III)
The results of an open-label crossover study of 16 patients (genotypes: 14 apo E2/E2 and 2 apo E3/E2) with dysbetalipoproteinemia
(Fredrickson Type III) are shown in the table below (Table 9).
TABLE 9. Open-Label Crossover Study of 16 Patients With Dysbetalipoproteinemia (Fredrickson Type III)
Median % Change (min, max)

Median (min, max) at LIPITOR LIPITOR
Baseline (mg/dL) 10 mg 80 mg
Total-C 442 (225, 1320) -37 (-85, 17) -58 (-90, -31)
Triglycerides 678 (273, 5990) -39 (-92, -8) -53 (-95, -30)
IDL-C + VLDL-C 215 (111, 613) -32 (-76, 9) -63 (-90, -8)
non-HDL-C 411 (218, 1272) -43 (-87, -19) -64 (-92, -36)
In a study without a concurrent control group, 29 patients ages 6 to 37 years with homozygous FH received maximum daily doses of
20 to 80 mg of LIPITOR. The mean LDL-C reduction in this study was 18%. Twenty-five patients with a reduction in LDL-C had a
mean response of 20% (range of 7% to 53%, median of 24%); the remaining 4 patients had 7% to 24% increases in LDL-C. Five of
the 29 patients had absent LDL-receptor function. Of these, 2 patients also had a portacaval shunt and had no significant reduction in
LDL-C. The remaining 3 receptor-negative patients had a mean LDL-C reduction of 22%.
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study followed by an open-label phase, 187 boys and postmenarchal girls 10-17 years of age
(mean age 14.1 years) with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) or severe hypercholesterolemia, were randomized to
LIPITOR (n=140) or placebo (n=47) for 26 weeks and then all received LIPITOR for 26 weeks. Inclusion in the study required 1) a
baseline LDL-C level ≥ 190 mg/dL or 2) a baseline LDL-C level ≥ 160 mg/dL and positive family history of FH or documented
premature cardiovascular disease in a first or second-degree relative. The mean baseline LDL-C value was 218.6 mg/dL (range:
138.5–385.0 mg/dL) in the LIPITOR group compared to 230.0 mg/dL (range: 160.0–324.5 mg/dL) in the placebo group. The dosage
of LIPITOR (once daily) was 10 mg for the first 4 weeks and uptitrated to 20 mg if the LDL-C level was > 130 mg/dL. The number of
LIPITOR-treated patients who required uptitration to 20 mg after Week 4 during the double-blind phase was 80 (57.1%).
LIPITOR significantly decreased plasma levels of total-C, LDL-C, triglycerides, and apolipoprotein B during the 26-week double-
blind phase (see Table 10).
TABLE 10. Lipid-altering Effects of LIPITOR in Adolescent Boys and Girls with Heterozygous Familial
Hypercholesterolemia or Severe Hypercholesterolemia (Mean Percentage Change From Baseline at Endpoint in
Intention-to-Treat Population)
DOSAGE N Total-C LDL-C HDL-C TG Apolipoprotein B
Placebo 47 -1.5 -0.4 -1.9 1.0 0.7
LIPITOR 140 -31.4 -39.6 2.8 -12.0 -34.0
The mean achieved LDL-C value was 130.7 mg/dL (range: 70.0–242.0 mg/dL) in the LIPITOR group compared to 228.5 mg/dL
(range: 152.0–385.0 mg/dL) in the placebo group during the 26-week double-blind phase.
The safety and efficacy of doses above 20 mg have not been studied in controlled trials in children. The long-term efficacy of
LIPITOR therapy in childhood to reduce morbidity and mortality in adulthood has not been established.
15 REFERENCES
1
National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP): Highlights of the Report of the Expert Panel on Blood Cholesterol Levels in
Children and Adolescents, Pediatrics. 89(3):495-501. 1992.
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
10 mg tablets: coded “PD 155” on one side and “10” on the other.
NDC 0071-0155-23 bottles of 90
NDC 0071-0155-34 bottles of 5000
NDC 0071-0155-40 10 x 10 unit dose blisters
NDC 0071-0156-94 bottles of 5000
NDC 0071-0157-73 bottles of 500
NDC 0071-0157-88 bottles of 2500
NDC 0071-0158-73 bottles of 500
NDC 0071-0158-88 bottles of 2500
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature 20 - 25°C (68 - 77°F) [see USP].
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
Patients taking LIPITOR should be advised that cholesterol is a chronic condition and they should adhere to their medication along
with their National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP)-recommended diet, a regular exercise program as appropriate, and
periodic testing of a fasting lipid panel to determine goal attainment.
Patients should be advised about substances they should not take concomitantly with atorvastatin [see Warnings and
Precautions (5.1)]. Patients should also be advised to inform other healthcare professionals prescribing a new medication
that they are taking LIPITOR.
17.1 Muscle Pain

All patients starting therapy with LIPITOR should be advised of the risk of myopathy and told to report promptly any unexplained
muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. The risk of this occurring is increased when taking certain types of medication or consuming
larger quantities (>1 liter) of grapefruit juice. They should discuss all medication, both prescription and over the counter, with their
healthcare professional.
17.2 Liver Enzymes

It is recommended that liver function tests be performed prior to and at 12 weeks following both the initiation of therapy and any
elevation of dose, and periodically (e.g., semiannually) thereafter.
17.3 Pregnancy
Women of childbearing age should be advised to use an effective method of birth control to prevent pregnancy while using
LIPITOR. Discuss future pregnancy plans with your patients, and discuss when to stop LIPITOR if they are trying to conceive.
Patients should be advised that if they become pregnant, they should stop taking LIPITOR and call their healthcare professional.
17.4 Breastfeeding
Women who are breastfeeding should be advised to not use LIPITOR. Patients who have a lipid disorder and are breastfeeding,
should be advised to discuss the options with their healthcare professional.
Rx Only
Manufactured by:
Pfizer Ireland Pharmaceuticals
Dublin, Ireland
LAB-0021-24.0
Revised June 2009
PATIENT INFORMATION
Who Should Not Take LIPITOR? doctor. Your doctor may do blood
tests to check your cholesterol
Do not take LIPITOR if you: levels during your treatment with
• are pregnant or think you may be LIPITOR. Your dose of LIPITOR
pregnant, or are planning to may be changed based on these
(LIP-ih-tore)) become pregnant. Lipitor may blood test results.
harm your unborn baby. If you get • Take LIPITOR each day at any
Read the Patient Information that pregnant, stop taking LIPITOR time of day at about the same time
comes with LIPITOR before you start and call your doctor right away. each day. LIPITOR can be taken
taking it and each time you get a refill. • are breast feeding. LIPITOR can with or without food.
There may be new information. This pass into your breast milk and may
Don't break LIPITOR tablets
leaflet does not take the place of harm your baby.
before taking.
talking with your doctor about your • have liver problems.
condition or treatment. • are allergic to LIPITOR or any of • Your doctor should start you on a
its ingredients. The active low-fat diet before giving you
If you have any questions about ingredient is atorvastatin. See the LIPITOR. Stay on this low-fat diet
LIPITOR, ask your doctor or end of this leaflet for a complete when you take LIPITOR.
pharmacist. list of ingredients in LIPITOR. • If you miss a dose of LIPITOR,
What is LIPITOR? take it as soon as you remember.
Do not take LIPITOR if it has
LIPITOR is a prescription medicine that LIPITOR has not been studied in
been more than 12 hours since you
lowers cholesterol in your blood. It lowers children under 10 years of age.
missed your last dose. Wait and
the LDL-C ("bad" cholesterol) and take the next dose at your regular
triglycerides in your blood. It can raise 1
time. Do not take 2 doses of

your HDL-C ("good" cholesterol) as well. Before You Start LIPITOR
LIPITOR at the same time.
LIPITOR is for adults and children over Tell your doctor if you:
10 whose cholesterol does not come down • If you take too much LIPITOR or
enough with exercise and a low-fat diet • have muscle aches or weakness overdose, call your doctor or
alone. • drink more than 2 glasses of Poison Control Center right away.
LIPITOR can lower the risk for heart alcohol daily Or go to the nearest emergency
attack, stroke, certain types of heart • have diabetes room.
surgery, and chest pain in patients who • have a thyroid problem What Should I Avoid While
have heart disease or risk factors for heart • have kidney problems Taking LIPITOR?
disease such as: • Talk to your doctor before you
• age, smoking, high blood pressure,
Some medicines should not be taken start any new medicines. This
low HDL-C, heart disease in the
with LIPITOR. Tell your doctor about includes prescription and non
family.
all the medicines you take, including prescription medicines, vitamins,
LIPITOR can lower the risk for heart prescription and non-prescription and herbal supplements. LIPITOR
attack or stroke in patients with diabetes medicines, vitamins, and herbal and certain other medicines can
and risk factors such as: supplements. LIPITOR and certain interact causing serious side
• eye problems, kidney problems, other medicines can interact causing effects.
smoking, or high blood pressure. serious side effects. Especially tell • Do not get pregnant. If you get
LIPITOR starts to work in about 2 weeks. your doctor if you take medicines for: pregnant, stop taking LIPITOR
• your immune system

right away and call your doctor.
• cholesterol
What is Cholesterol? • infections

What are the Possible Side
Cholesterol and triglycerides are fats • birth control
Effects of LIPITOR?
that are made in your body. They are • heart failure
also found in foods. You need some • HIV or AIDS
cholesterol for good health, but too LIPITOR can cause serious side
Know all the medicines you take.
much is not good for you. Cholesterol effects. These side effects have
Keep a list of them with you to show
and triglycerides can clog your blood happened only to a small number of
your doctor and pharmacist.
vessels. It is especially important to people. Your doctor can monitor you

lower your cholesterol if you have for them. These side effects usually
heart disease, smoke, have diabetes or How Should I Take LIPITOR? go away if your dose is lowered or
high blood pressure, are older, or if • Take LIPITOR exactly as LIPITOR is stopped. These serious
heart disease starts early in your prescribed by your doctor. Do not side effects include:
family. change your dose or stop
LIPITOR without talking to your
• Muscle problems. LIPITOR can How do I store LIPITOR
cause serious muscle problems
that can lead to kidney problems, • Store LIPITOR at room
including kidney failure. You have temperature, 68 to 77°F (20 to
a higher chance for muscle 25°C).
problems if you are taking certain • Do not keep medicine that is out of
other medicines with LIPITOR. date or that you no longer need.
• Keep LIPITOR and all medicines
out of the reach of children. Be
• Liver problems. LIPITOR can
sure that if you throw medicine
cause liver problems. Your doctor
away, it is out of the reach of
may do blood tests to check your
children.
liver before you start taking
LIPITOR, and while you take it. General Information About
LIPITOR
Call your doctor right away if you
have: Medicines are sometimes prescribed
• muscle problems like for conditions that are not mentioned in
weakness, tenderness, or pain patient information leaflets. Do not use
that happen without a good LIPITOR for a condition for which it
reason, especially if you also was not prescribed. Do not give
have a fever or feel more tired LIPITOR to other people, even if they
than usual. have the same problem you have. It
• allergic reactions including may harm them.
swelling of the face, lips,
tongue, and/or throat that may This leaflet summarizes the most
cause difficulty in breathing important information about LIPITOR.
or swallowing which may If you would like more information, talk
require treatment right away. with your doctor. You can ask your
• nausea and vomiting. doctor or pharmacist for information
• passing brown or dark- about LIPITOR that is written for health
colored urine. professionals. Or you can go to the
LIPITOR website at www.lipitor.com.
• you feel more tired than usual
• your skin and whites of your
What are the Ingredients in
eyes get yellow.
LIPITOR?
• stomach pain.
• allergic skin reactions. Active Ingredient: atorvastatin
calcium
In clinical studies, patients reported the Inactive Ingredients: calcium
following common side effects while carbonate, USP; candelilla wax, FCC;
taking LIPITOR: diarrhea, upset croscarmellose sodium, NF;
stomach, muscle and joint pain, and hydroxypropyl cellulose, NF; lactose
alterations in some laboratory blood monohydrate, NF; magnesium stearate,
tests. NF; microcrystalline cellulose, NF;
Opadry White YS-1-7040
The following additional side effects (hypromellose, polyethylene glycol,
have been reported with LIPITOR: talc, titanium dioxide); polysorbate 80,
tiredness, and tendon problems. NF; simethicone emulsion.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if Rx Only

you have side effects that bother you or
that will not go away.
These are not all the side effects of

LIPITOR. Ask your doctor or Manufactured by Pfizer Ireland
pharmacist for a complete list. Pharmaceuticals
Dublin, Ireland
LAB-0348-4.0 June 2009

Atorvastatin

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Atorvastatin

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Atorvastatin

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION ----------------------WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS-----------------------­

Drug Interactions Associated with Increased

• Digoxin: Patients should be monitored appropriately (7.5).

---------------------DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS----------------------

FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Combination of Ritonavir plus Saquinavir or Lopinavir plus Ritonavir

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

Hepatic Transaminase Levels

4.2 Hypersensitivity to any Component of this Medication

5.2 Liver Dysfunction

5.3 Endocrine Function

5.4 CNS Toxicity

5.5 Use in Patients with Recent Stroke or TIA

6.2 Postintroduction Reports

6.3 Pediatric Patients (ages 10-17 years)

Combination of Protease Inhibitors

7.2 Grapefruit Juice

7.4 Rifampin or other Inducers of Cytochrome P450 3A4

7.6 Oral Contraceptives

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.3 Nursing Mothers

8.4 Pediatric Use

8.5 Geriatric Use

8.6 Hepatic Impairment

14.2 Hyperlipidemia and Mixed Dyslipidemia

14.5 Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia

14.6 Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Pediatric Patients

17.2 Liver Enzymes

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

1.1 Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease

1.3 Limitations of Use

2.2 Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Pediatric Patients (10-17 years of age)

2.3 Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia

2.4 Concomitant Lipid-Lowering Therapy

2.5 Dosage in Patients With Renal Impairment

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

4.4 Nursing mothers

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Skeletal Muscle

Table 1. Drug Interactions Associated with Increased Risk of

5.2 Liver Dysfunction

5.3 Endocrine Function

5.4 CNS Toxicity

5.5 Use in Patients with Recent Stroke or TIA

Rhabdomyolysis and myopathy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]

Liver enzyme abnormalities [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]

6.1 Clinical Trial Adverse Experiences

Any dose 10 mg 20 mg 40 mg 80 mg Placebo

Nasopharyngitis 8.3 12.9 5.3 7.0 4.2 8.2

Other adverse reactions reported in placebo-controlled studies include:

blurred, tinnitus; Urogenital system: white blood cells urine positive.

Anglo-Scandinavian Cardiac Outcomes Trial (ASCOT)

Collaborative Atorvastatin Diabetes Study (CARDS)

Treating to New Targets Study (TNT)

Incremental Decrease in Endpoints through Aggressive Lipid Lowering Study (IDEAL)

follow-up of 4.8 years.

Stroke Prevention by Aggressive Reduction in Cholesterol Levels (SPARCL)

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION ----------------------WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS-----------------------

Atorvastatin calcium is [R-(R, R)]-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-ß, δ-dihydroxy-5-(1-methylethyl)-3-phenyl-4-[(phenylamino)carbonyl]-1H

Dose N TC LDL-C Apo B TG HDL-C Non-HDL