Can I take Atorvastatin and Ezetimibe together?

Varför detta händer

Both medicines work in different ways to lower cholesterol (atorvastatin stops the liver from making it, while ezetimibe stops the gut from absorbing it). Because both drugs can independently affect muscle tissue, taking them together has an 'additive' effect, meaning the small risk associated with each drug is combined.

It is generally safe to take these together if prescribed by your doctor. You should monitor yourself for any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially when you first start the treatment or if your dose is increased. If you notice these symptoms, or if your urine becomes dark in colour, contact your doctor immediately.

Graviditet

You must not take these medicines if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as they can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. Use effective contraception while taking these medicines.

Muscle disorders

Seek immediate medical advice if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. In rare cases, this can lead to a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis which causes kidney damage.

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice contains compounds that can increase the level of atorvastatin in your blood. This may increase your risk of side effects, such as muscle pain or damage. Avoid drinking large quantities (more than 1.2 litres per day), though it is safest to avoid it altogether or keep intake to very small amounts.

Alkohol

While there is no direct 'chemical' interaction, both these medicines and alcohol can affect your liver. Drinking large amounts of alcohol regularly while taking these medicines can increase the risk of liver problems. It is best to stay within the recommended UK low-risk guidelines (no more than 14 units per week).

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.