Lochol Tablet Uses

Lochol tablet is primarily used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as statins. Following are some common uses of Lochol Tablet:

1. High Cholesterol: Lochol tablet is commonly used to lower elevated levels of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides, and to increase levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) in the blood.
2. Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: By lowering cholesterol levels, the Lochol tablet helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, and angina (chest pain).
3. Atherosclerosis: Lochol tablets can slow down the progression of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries. It helps prevent the narrowing and hardening of the arteries, promoting better blood flow.
4. Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Lochol tablet is also used for individuals with a genetic condition called familial hypercholesterolemia, which leads to very high levels of cholesterol. It helps manage and control cholesterol levels in these patients.
5. Secondary Prevention: Lochol tablets may be used for individuals who have already experienced a cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack or stroke. It helps reduce the risk of recurrent events and improves overall cardiovascular health.

Off-label Uses of Lochol Tablet

1. Diabetes Management: Lochol tablets may have beneficial effects in managing diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing markers of inflammation.
2. Alzheimer’s Disease: Lochol tablets can be used for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. However, more research is needed to establish its efficacy in this regard.
3. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Lochol tablet has been used as an adjunct therapy for rheumatoid arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Using Lochol tablets may help reduce disease activity and inflammation in some individuals.
4. Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Lochol tablets may be used as a treatment option for NAFLD, a condition characterized by fat accumulation in the liver. Using Lochol may help improve liver function and reduce inflammation in some cases.

Lochol is one of the leading brands of Atorvastatin, manufactured and marketed by Scilife Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

The following are some alternative brands of Lochol and their manufacturers.

• Lipiget : Getz Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Lipitor : Pfizer Laboratories Inc.
• Lipirex : Highnoon Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Stat-A : High Q International.
• Winstor : Sanofi Aventis (Pakistan) Ltd.
• Pro-Statin : Consolidated Chemical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Descol : Nabiqasim Industries (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Truva : Sami Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Mypro : Pharmevo (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Atorsan : Novartis (Pakistan) Ltd.

Presently, Lochol is available in Tablets Form with the following strengths.

Lochol Tablets : 10mg, 20mg, and 40mg strengths

Despite the potential benefits of Lochol uses discussed above, there are several contraindications that must be taken into consideration before beginning a course of treatment.

Allergy or hypersensitivity: Individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Lochol or any of its components should avoid its use.

Active liver disease: Lochol is metabolized by the liver, and its use is not recommended in individuals with active liver disease or elevated liver enzyme levels. It can further impair liver function and cause complications.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Lochol is generally contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus or infant. It may cause harm to the developing baby or pass into breast milk.

Severe renal impairment: Lochol dosage adjustment may be necessary in individuals with severe kidney impairment, but its use is generally not recommended in those with end-stage renal disease.

Drug interactions: Lochol can interact with certain medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness. Individuals taking medications such as certain antibiotics, antifungals, HIV protease inhibitors, and certain cardiovascular drugs should exercise caution or avoid Lochol use, as advised by their healthcare provider.

Lochol Dose for Hypercholesterolemia and Dyslipidemia:

Initial Dose: 10-20 mg once a day.
Followed Dose: 10-80 mg once a day.

Lochol Dose for Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia:

Initial Dose: 10-20 mg once a day.
Followed Dose: 10-80 mg once a day.

Lochol Dose for Prevention of Cardiovascular Events:

Initial Dose: 10-20 mg once daily.
Followed dose: 10-80 mg once daily.

Lochol works by binding to and inhibiting the activity of HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for converting HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A) into mevalonate. Mevalonate is a precursor for cholesterol synthesis.

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