Enzyme HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A) reductase catalyzes the rate-limiting step in cholesterol biosynthesis. Statins inhibit the action of HMG-CoA reductase resulting in the reduction of low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) and total cholesterol levels. Especially in statins, atorvastatin calcium salt is a most potent statin because it has a long half-life and metabolites which also play a role as an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. Atorvastatin metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). In addition, we have a synthetic intermediate (atorvastatin acetonide
tert-butyl ester [
B3690]) for atorvastatin calcium salt. (The product is for research purpose only.)