High LDL cholesterol and high triglycerides, and the prevention of heart attack and stroke in people with heart disease, diabetes or a high calculated cardiovascular risk. It is taken alongside changes to diet and activity, not instead of them.

The liver makes most of the body's cholesterol using an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase. Atorvastatin blocks that enzyme, so the liver makes less cholesterol and pulls more LDL out of the blood to make up the shortfall. Lower LDL means slower build-up of plaque in the arteries.

Muscle aches, headache, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea, and a stuffy nose. Blood tests may show a rise in liver enzymes or blood sugar.

Report muscle pain, tenderness or weakness that is severe or unexplained, especially with dark urine or fever, as statins can rarely damage muscle. Do not take atorvastatin in pregnancy or while breastfeeding, and avoid grapefruit juice. Tell your doctor about liver disease, thyroid problems, heavy alcohol use or any other medicines, since several interact. It is a prescription medicine in Pakistan.