food interaction for Atherochek

alcohol interaction for Atherochek

pregnancy interaction for Atherochek

lactation interaction for Atherochek

food
alcohol
pregnancy
lactation
Atherochek 5 Tablet is to be taken with food.
None
CAUTION
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Atherochek 5 Tablet.
UNSAFE
Atherochek 5 Tablet is highly unsafe to use during pregnancy. Seek your doctor's advice as studies on pregnant women and animals have shown significant harmful effects to the developing baby.
UNSAFE
Atherochek 5 Tablet is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
SAFE IF PRESCRIBED

SALT INFORMATION FOR Atherochek

Atorvastatin(5mg)

Uses

Atorvastatin is used in the treatment of high cholesterol and high triglycerides.

How it works

Atorvastatin is a lipid-lowering medication (statin). It works by blocking an enzyme (HMG-CoA-reductase) that is required in the body to make cholesterol. It thus lowers "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, raising the level of "good" cholesterol (HDL).

Common side effects

Increased glucose level in blood, Indigestion, Diarrhea, Fever, Increased creatine phosphokinase (CPK) level in blood, Joint pain, Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages), Nausea, Pain in extremities, Urinary tract infection, Abnormal liver function tests, General discomfort, Hepatitis (viral infection of liver), Muscle damage, Rhabdomyolysis, Immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy
Methylcobalamin(500mcg)

Uses

Methylcobalamin is used in vitamin B12 deficiency.

How it works

Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 that restores its level in the body thereby helping in treating certain anemias and nerve problems.

Common side effects

Decreased appetite, Diarrhea, Nausea, Rash
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)(10mg)

Uses

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) is used in the treatment of nutritional deficiencies.

How it works

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) provides essential nutrients.

Common side effects

Burning sensation, Tightness sensation, Headache, Nausea, Sleepiness, Upset stomach, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation)
Folic Acid(5mg)

Uses

Folic Acid is used in the treatment of anemia due to folic acid deficiency, iron deficiency anemia and anemia due to chronic kidney disease.

How it works

Folic Acid is a form of vitamin B. It plays a vital role in the formation of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. It is also essential in pregnancy due to its role in the development of the unborn baby's brain and spinal cord.

Common side effects

No common side effects seen

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Expert advice FOR Atherochek

  • In general, Atorvastatin is safe. It may cause diarrhea, gas or an upset stomach. If any of these happen to you, take it with food.
  • Inform your doctor if you experience fatigue, muscle weakness or muscle pain. 
  • Your doctor may check your liver function before starting the treatment and regularly thereafter. Inform your doctor if you notice signs of liver problems such as stomach pains, unusually dark urine or yellowing of skin or eyes.
  • Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease or diabetes before starting treatment with this medicine. If you are diabetic, monitor your blood sugar level regularly as Atorvastatin may cause an increase in your blood sugar level.
  • Do not take Atorvastatin if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • Atorvastatin treats high cholesterol by lowering "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides (fats). It should be taken in addition to regular exercise and low-fat diet.
  • It also reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.
  • In general, Atorvastatin is safe. It may cause diarrhea, gas or an upset stomach. If any of these happen to you, take it with food.
  • Inform your doctor if you experience fatigue, muscle weakness or muscle pain. 
  • Your doctor may check your liver function before starting the treatment and regularly thereafter. Inform your doctor if you notice signs of liver problems such as stomach pains, unusually dark urine or yellowing of skin or eyes.
  • Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease or diabetes before starting treatment with this medicine. If you are diabetic, monitor your blood sugar level regularly as Atorvastatin may cause an increase in your blood sugar level.
  • Do not take Atorvastatin if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions FOR Atherochek

Atorvastatin

Q. What should I know about high cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a type of fat present in your blood. Total cholesterol is determined by the total amount of LDL and HDL cholesterol in the body. LDL cholesterol is called “bad” cholesterol. Bad cholesterol can build up in the wall of your blood vessels and slow or obstruct blood flow to your heart, brain, and other organs. This can cause heart disease and stroke. HDL cholesterol is called “good” cholesterol as it prevents the bad cholesterol from building up in the blood vessels. High levels of triglycerides are also harmful to you.
Q. Is Atorvastatin used for lowering cholesterol?
Atorvastatin belongs to a group of medicines known as statins, which lowers the level of lipids or fats. Atorvastatin is used to lower lipids known as cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood when a low-fat diet and lifestyle changes fail to lower the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. If you are at an increased risk of heart disease, Atorvastatin can also be used to reduce such risk even if your cholesterol levels are normal. You should maintain a standard cholesterol-lowering diet during treatment.
Q. Will taking Atorvastatin lead to an increase in my risk of diabetes?
If you are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, taking Atorvastatin may increase this risk slightly. This is because Atorvastatin can raise your blood sugar a little. If you already have type 2 diabetes, your doctor may advise monitoring your blood sugar levels more closely for the first few months. Tell your doctor if you find it harder to control your blood sugar.
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Q. For how long do I need to take Atorvastatin? Is it safe for long-term use?
You may need to take Atorvastatin life long or for the duration prescribed by your doctor. The benefits will only continue for as long as you take it. If you stop taking Atorvastatin without starting a different treatment, your cholesterol levels may rise again. It is considered to be safe and has few side effects if taken as directed by the doctor.
Q. Does Atorvastatin cause weight loss?
No, Atorvastatin has not been reported to cause weight loss. However, weight gain has been reported as an uncommon side effect. Please consult your doctor if you experience weight loss while taking Atorvastatin.
Q. Can I stop taking Atorvastatin?
No, you should not stop taking Atorvastatin without consulting your doctor. If you think that Atorvastatin is causing side effects, you should consult your doctor who may accordingly lower your dose or change your medicine.
Q. Does Atorvastatin cause memory loss?
Memory loss may occur with Atorvastatin in very rare cases. This is generally non-serious and may occur as early as 1 day or may take years to appear. These symptoms may disappear within about 3 weeks of discontinuing Atorvastatin. However, you should consult your doctor if you experience this side effect as it could be due to some other reason.
Q. When should I take Atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin is generally taken once a day. It can be taken in the morning or night or at any time of the day, with or without food. Try taking this medicine at the same time every day to help remember when to take it.
Q. What are the most common side effects of Atorvastatin?
The common side effects of Atorvastatin include nausea, indigestion, constipation, flatulence, diarrhea, headache, and aches and pains in your back and joints. It may also cause nosebleeds, sore throat, and cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, blocked nose, or sneezing.
Q. Does Atorvastatin make you tired?
Yes, Atorvastatin can make you feel tired. This is because they reduce the energy supply to the muscles in the body. However, the exact reason behind the phenomenon is unknown and needs more research. Tiredness usually occurs after exertion. Generalized fatigue is more often seen in people with heart disease or those suffering from liver illness. Atorvastatin also causes muscle damage which further worsens the tiredness. Therefore, you must consult your doctor if you feel tired while taking Atorvastatin.
Q. Can I take alcohol with Atorvastatin?
No, it is not advised to take alcohol with Atorvastatin. This is because the risk of developing liver problems increases if you drink alcohol while taking this medicine. Moreover, there is a significant increase in the triglyceride levels if Atorvastatin is taken along with alcohol. This can further lead to liver damage and also worsen some of the side effects such as muscle pain, muscle weakness, and tenderness. People with liver problems are therefore advised, not to take Atorvastatin without consulting the doctor. They should also refrain from consuming alcohol while taking this medicine to get maximum benefit.
Q. Is Atorvastatin a blood thinner?
No, Atorvastatin is not a blood thinner. It is a cholesterol-lowering medicine. It works by slowing down the production of cholesterol in the body. This further decreases the amount of cholesterol that may build up on the walls of the arteries and block blood flow to the part of the body. By lowering the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides it prevents the chances of stroke and heart attack.
Q. Can Atorvastatin cause muscle problems or muscle injury?
Yes, taking Atorvastatin can cause muscle problems or muscle injury. This is because of the reduced oxygen supply to the muscle cells which leads to fatigue, muscle pain, tenderness, or muscle weakness. The soreness may be significant enough to interfere with your daily activities. Do not take it lightly and consult your doctor to know about ways to prevent this and to avoid making it worse.
Q. Can Atorvastatin be prescribed to children?
Atorvastatin is for adults and children aged 10 years or more whose cholesterol levels do not come down enough with exercise and a low-fat diet. It is not approved for use in patients younger than 10 years old.

Methylcobalamin

Q. What is Methylcobalamin?
Methylcobalamin contains vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient which is required by the body to make red blood cells and maintain a healthy nervous system. It is also important for releasing energy from food and using vitamin B11 (folic acid).
Q. Why can’t I get sufficient vitamin B12 from my diet?
You can get vitamin B12 from sources like meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. While people who are vegetarian or vegan may not get Vitamin B12 as it is not found naturally in foods such as fruits, vegetables and grains. Therefore, deficiency of Vitamin B12 is usually noticed in vegetarians or vegans.
Q. What happens if I have vitamin B12 deficiency?
Deficiency of vitamin B12 may cause tiredness, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss and megaloblastic anemia (a condition when red blood cells become larger in size than normal). It may also lead to nerve problems such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. Other symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may include problems with balance, depression, confusion, dementia, poor memory and soreness of the mouth or tongue.
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Q. How should Methylcobalamin be taken?
Methylcobalamin should be taken in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food. However, it would be best to take it at the same time each day to avoid the chances of missing a dose.
Q. What if I forget to take a dose of Methylcobalamin?
If you forget a dose of Methylcobalamin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose in the prescribed time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.
Q. Is Methylcobalamin safe?
Methylcobalamin is safe if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Take it exactly as directed and do not skip any dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and let your doctor know if any of the side effects bother you.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

Folic Acid

Q. Is it ok to take Folic Acid when not pregnant?
Usually, folic acid requirements are met from the diet and therefore additional supplements are not required. In general, Folic Acid is recommended only when you have a deficiency of folic acid. However, Folic Acid is advised to women who are pregnant and who want to conceive. The medicine should be taken at least 4 weeks before pregnancy and should continue its use up to 3 months of pregnancy. Consult your doctor if not sure.
Q. Can Folic Acid cause weight gain?
Animal studies on Folic Acid suggest that taking the medicine in excess along with a high-fat diet may lead to weight gain and fat accumulation. But this weight gain was not evident when taken along with a normal or low-fat diet, even with excess Folic Acid. In humans, similar studies have not been conducted and therefore knowledge regarding weight gain is lacking. Therefore, if you are on Folic Acid eat a low-fat meal to be on the safer side.
Q. How long does Folic Acid take to work?
Folic Acid usually starts working within a few hours of taking it. If you are taking it for iron deficiency anemia, you may start feeling better after a few weeks of taking it. In case you are taking it during pregnancy, you may not notice any difference but this does not mean that the dose is not working. Continue taking Folic Acid for the duration recommended by your doctor.
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Q. Why should women start taking Folic Acid before they become pregnant?
Maintaining the right level of folic acid in the body before getting pregnant reduces the risk of developing neural tube defects in the baby. The neural tube defect, in most cases, is caused if the structure (neural tube) from which the central nervous system develops (brain and spinal cord) in a baby does not form or is only partially closed. full closure of the neural tube occurs during the end of the fourth week of pregnancy. Folic acid helps in the formation of neural tubes. Therefore, to prevent this defect women should start Folic Acid before four weeks of pregnancy.
Q. Can I breastfeed while taking Folic Acid?
Yes, you can breastfeed while taking Folic Acid as it is not harmful to the baby. Folic Acid contains folic acid which is naturally found in breast milk. Though its initial levels in breast milk are low, it rises eventually. Since it is actively secreted in breast milk, the mother may take Folic Acid every day to maintain the required levels. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions related to nutrient supplementation in breastfeeding.
Q. When should I take Folic Acid, in the morning or at night?
You can take Folic Acid any time of the day, but try to take it at the same time each day. This will help you remember to take it. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The medicine should be swallowed as a whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, cut or crush the medicine.
Q. Can Folic Acid make you sick?
Generally, Folic Acid is well tolerated. However, some people may experience nausea (feeling sick), loss of appetite, bloating, and excessive passing of gas. The medicine may also worsen the symptoms of any coexisting vitamin B12 deficiency. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor but do not stop taking Folic Acid.
Q. How long do I need to take Folic Acid?
The duration of treatment with Folic Acid depends on the reason you are taking it for. If you are planning your pregnancy, you may start taking it 4 weeks before pregnancy and continue up to the first 3 months of pregnancy. If you are taking it for folic acid deficiency then you may have to take it for 4 months or longer (if your deficiency does not subside). If you are taking it to reduce the side effects of methotrexate then you may need to take it for as long as you are taking methotrexate. Consult your prescribing physician to know the exact duration of your therapy.

Content on this page was last updated on 11 November, 2024, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)