Can I take Atorvastatin and Clopidogrel together?

Varför detta händer

Both medicines are processed by the same enzyme in the liver (CYP3A4). Because atorvastatin uses this enzyme, it can slow down the process that turns clopidogrel into its active form, potentially making clopidogrel slightly less effective at 'thinning' the blood.

You should continue taking both medicines as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking either medication without medical advice, as they are often prescribed together to protect your heart. Your doctor is likely already aware of this interaction and has determined it is safe for you. If you have concerns, or if you notice any new signs of blood clots (such as sudden leg pain or shortness of breath), speak to your GP.

Graviditet

Do not take atorvastatin if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as it may harm your unborn baby. Use effective contraception while taking this medicine.

Bleeding risk

Clopidogrel increases your risk of serious bleeding. Seek urgent medical help if you have signs of internal bleeding, such as black tarry stools, blood in your urine, or coughing up blood.

Surgery or dental work

You must tell your surgeon or dentist that you are taking clopidogrel before any procedure, as you may need to stop taking it temporarily to prevent excessive bleeding.

Muscle problems (Myopathy) - atorvastatin

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. In rare cases, this can lead to serious kidney problems.

Alkohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking these medicines. Drinking alcohol with atorvastatin can increase your risk of liver problems and muscle damage. Drinking alcohol with clopidogrel can increase the risk of bleeding in your stomach or intestines.

Grapefruit juice

Avoid drinking large quantities of grapefruit juice (more than 1.2 litres a day). Grapefruit contains compounds that can increase the level of atorvastatin in your blood, which raises your risk of serious side effects like muscle damage.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Interaktionskontroll för läkemedel helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Ansvarsfriskrivning

Denna information är endast avsedd för allmän utbildning och bör inte användas som en ersättning för professionell medicinsk rådgivning. Rådfråga alltid din läkare, apotekare eller annan kvalificerad vårdpersonal innan du fattar beslut om dina mediciner. Individuella omständigheter kan variera, och endast en vårdpersonal som känner till din medicinska historia kan ge personlig vägledning.