How to treat gastritis caused by taking atorvastatin calcium tablets

Dec 09, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I took atorvastatin calcium tablets, which resulted in gastritis. How should gastritis caused by atorvastatin calcium be treated?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Chao
Atorvastatin calcium is a commonly used statin medication primarily prescribed to lower blood cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease. However, statins may occasionally cause gastrointestinal side effects, including gastritis. Gastritis refers to inflammation of the gastric mucosa and can lead to symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. If atorvastatin calcium is suspected to have triggered gastritis, the first step is to consult a physician. The physician may recommend temporarily discontinuing the drug or switching to an alternative medication, along with initiating gastric mucosal protection and anti-inflammatory therapy. Treatment for gastritis may include acid-suppressing agents (e.g., proton pump inhibitors or H₂-receptor antagonists), gastric mucosal protectants (e.g., sucralfate), and anti-inflammatory medications. Additionally, patients should modify their dietary habits—avoiding spicy, fatty, and irritating foods; abstaining from alcohol and tobacco; and maintaining regular meal times. In certain cases, the physician may also recommend gastroscopy to rule out other gastric disorders.