Can I take Atorvastatin and Cardiace together?

Why this happens

Atorvastatin works by lowering cholesterol in the liver, while Cardicor is a beta-blocker that slows the heart rate and reduces blood pressure. They work through entirely different pathways in the body and do not interfere with how the other is absorbed or cleared from the system.

What you should do

You can safely take these medicines together as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually best to take atorvastatin in the evening and Cardicor in the morning. If you develop unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, or feel excessively tired, mention this to your GP.

Important precautions

Pregnancy

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

Muscle disorders

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. This can rarely lead to a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis which causes kidney damage.

Dietary (Grapefruit)

Avoid drinking large quantities of grapefruit juice (more than one or two small glasses a day), as it can significantly increase the level of the medicine in your blood and increase the risk of side effects.

Food and drink warnings

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 may increase the risk of side effects like muscle pain or damage.

Alcohol

Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol while taking this medicine. Both alcohol and atorvastatin can affect your liver; heavy drinking increases the risk of liver problems and may increase the risk of muscle side effects.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker 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.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.