Atorvastatin is one of the most commonly prescribed medicines in the UK. It belongs to a group of medicines called statins and is used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. If you have just been prescribed atorvastatin, this page explains what it is, the brands and strengths it comes in, how to take it, and how to have it dispensed and delivered free on the NHS with PillSorted.
This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: 29 June 2026.
What is atorvastatin?
Atorvastatin lowers the level of “bad” LDL cholesterol in your blood by reducing the amount your body makes. Keeping cholesterol low helps protect your arteries and lowers your long-term risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke (NICE). It is usually taken long term as a once-daily tablet.
Brands and strengths
Atorvastatin is the active ingredient. It is available as a generic medicine and under the original brand name Lipitor — both contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. Common strengths:
- Atorvastatin 10 mg tablets
- Atorvastatin 20 mg tablets
- Atorvastatin 40 mg tablets
- Atorvastatin 80 mg tablets
- Brand name: Lipitor
What atorvastatin is used for
- Lowering high cholesterol (high LDL cholesterol)
- Reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke in people at higher cardiovascular risk
- Protecting heart health in people with diabetes or existing heart and circulatory conditions
How to take atorvastatin
Atorvastatin is usually taken once a day, at any time of day, with or without food — try to take it at the same time each day. Keep taking it even if you feel well. Avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice (BNF). Always follow your prescriber’s instructions.
Side effects
Most people take atorvastatin without problems. Common side effects can include headache, feeling sick, digestive symptoms, and mild muscle or joint aches. Contact your doctor promptly if you get unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness (BNF). See the patient information leaflet for the full list.
Atorvastatin: frequently asked questions
Yes. Lipitor is the original brand name for atorvastatin. Generic atorvastatin contains the same active ingredient at the same strength and works in the same way.
Once a day, at any time of day, with or without food. Take it at the same time each day and keep taking it even if you feel well.
Avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice, which can affect how atorvastatin works. Otherwise you can eat and drink normally.
Yes. If you have an NHS prescription for atorvastatin, you can nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy and we will dispense and deliver it to your door for free.
Get your atorvastatin delivered free on the NHS
If you have an NHS prescription for atorvastatin, PillSorted dispenses and delivers it to your door — completely free. Nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy once, and we take care of your repeat prescriptions from then on.
What you get
- Free delivery, every time — your medicine posted to your door, always free.
- Your whole family, one account — manage everyone’s prescriptions in one place.
- Real pharmacists, every prescription — every order checked by our UK pharmacist team.
How it works
- Choose PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy
- We collect your prescription from your GP
- Your medication is delivered free to your door
Sources: NICE — Lipid modification (CVD prevention); BNF — Atorvastatin.
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or pharmacist. Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed. For advice about your own health, consult a clinician.