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Atorvastatin (Lipinon)

Seoul National University Hospital · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Atorvastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol synthesis, thereby reducing LDL cholesterol levels.

Atorvastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol synthesis, thereby reducing LDL cholesterol levels. Used for Hypercholesterolemia, Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease, Secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with established coronary artery disease.

At a glance

Generic nameAtorvastatin (Lipinon)
SponsorSeoul National University Hospital
Drug classHMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin)
TargetHMG-CoA reductase
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaCardiovascular
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Atorvastatin is a statin that competitively inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, which catalyzes the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate in the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway. This inhibition leads to decreased hepatic cholesterol production, upregulation of LDL receptors on hepatocytes, and enhanced clearance of LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. The net result is significant reduction in serum LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, with modest increases in HDL cholesterol.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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