Xerova (Atorvastatin)

Product Description:

Atorvastatin is a liver-selective, competitive inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme that converts 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. It lowers elevated LDL cholesterol levels, resulting in a substantial reduction in coronary events and death from coronary heart disease. Atorvastatin lowers plasma cholesterol and lipoprotein levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase and cholesterol synthesis in the liver and by increasing the number of hepatic LDL receptors on the cell-surface to enhance uptake and catabolism of LDL. Atorvastatin reduces LDL production and the number of LDL particles. The HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors can increase plasma HDL levels in some patients, resulting in an additional lowering of risk for CHD. In patients with hypertriglyceridemia, Atorvastatin significantly lowers triglycerides. It is generally accepted that HMG-CoA reductase does not play a direct role in the regulation of triglycerides. Two indirect mechanisms have been suggested to explain the effect of Atorvastatin on triglyceride levels. Substantial reduction of cholesterol synthesis may impair VLDL particle assembly and secretion, resulting in lower triglyceride levels because VLDL transports triglycerides. Marked reductions in hepatic cholesterol levels may lead to increased LDL receptor expression, which in turn causes reductions in triglyceride levels through increased binding of VLDL remnant particles and LDL.

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