Some statins have specific recommendations for what time of the day they should be taken.

The dosing and timing depend on when it is most convenient.

Atorvastatin has a longerhalf-life(14 hours) compared to other statins.

Man looking at pill bottle while sitting at desk and listening to a doctor on a video conference at home

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A drug’s half life is the time it takes for it to be removed by the body.

Because of this, atorvastatin is known as a long-acting statin.

What matters most is taking it consistently.

Statins arecholesterol medicationsused to lower bad cholesterol orlow-density lipoprotein (LDL).

These medications can also effectively lower the risk of serious complications, such as heart attacks and strokes.

How Long You’ll Need It For

Many people need to continue taking atorvastatin long-term.

When you stop taking the medication, it may cause your cholesterol levels to rise.

A common reason for stopping is because the medication is causing intolerable side effects.

Your provider may recommend switching to a lower dose or a different medication.

How long after taking atorvastatin can you eat?

The tablet form of atorvastatin can be taken with or without food.

Most people start with a dose of 10 to 20 mg daily.

If your cholesterol levels are very high, your healthcare provider may start you on a higher dose.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take your medication, take it as soon as you remember.

If it has been 24 hours, skip the dose and take the next one at the usual time.

Which Statins Should You Take at Night?

Some statins should be taken at bedtime or with dinner.

Which Statins Can You Take in the Morning?

These may influence how you take your medication.

Call 911 if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think youre having a medical emergency.

Will atorvastatin affect how I sleep?

Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a complete list of all possible interactions.

Can I take atorvastatin with food?

you might take atorvastatin with or without food.

For starters, the foods you eat can greatly affect your cholesterol levels.

In particular, the types of fats you eat will play a big role in your LDL cholesterol.

Limiting foods high insaturated fat and trans fatis one way to lower your LDL.

Limiting your alcohol intake and quitting smoking are also strategies that you could do to lower your cholesterol.

Long-acting statins are just as effective in the morning as in the evening.

The author would like to recognize and thank Cody Ryan Thomas for contributing to this article.

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