Drug Name: Lovastatin
Brand Names: Advicor, Altoprev, Mevacor
Generic Name: Lovastatin (LOW- vuh-stat-in)
Uses: Lovastatin belongs to a family of medicines called statins. It is used to reduce the amount of cholesterol and fatty substances in the blood. It works by slowing down the production of cholesterol in the body. By lowering cholesterol levels, you reduce the risk of heart diseases and heart attacks.
How to use: Lovastatin comes in tablet form or long-release tablet form. Both forms are usually taken once a day. Tablets are usually taken in the morning with meals, while the long-release tablet form is usually taken during bedtime. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and ask questions if there are parts of the direction that you don’t understand. Also, taking more of what is necessary will not cause more harm than good. For long-release tablets, swallow them whole. Do not crush or chew them.
Side Effects: Lovastatin may cause some side effects which include mild stomach pains, nausea, constipation or diarrhea. If these side effects become severe, contact your doctor immediately.
There are some rare but serious side effects that can occur. These include unexplained muscle pains, fatigue, yellowing of the skin and the eyes, dark urine or pale stools, signs of allergic reactions and difficulty in breathing. If these happen, stop taking the medication and consult your doctor immediately.
Precautions: Be sure to tell your doctor about any drugs or supplements that you are taking. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to Lovastatin or some other medication. Also, tell your doctor if you have any history of kidney diseases, diabetes, chronic muscular disease, blood disorders, and drink alcoholic beverages.
Drug Interaction: Lovastatin is known to be affected by many other vitamins, medicines and supplements. It is also affected by blood thinners and antifungal medication. Your doctor may need to reduce or change your prescription dosage as required.
Overdose: Symptoms of Lovastatin overdose include fainting and extreme dizziness. In case of Lovastatin overdose, seek emergency medical treatment.
Notes: It is best to avoid drinking alcohol if you are taking Lovastatin. If you do, it could cause serious damage to the liver. It is also necessary for you to avoid eating fatty, high-cholesterol foods that can raise your cholesterol level. Also, grapefruit and grapefruit juice must be avoided because consuming them while taking Lovastatin may have some potentially dangerous effects. Talk to your doctor if the abovementioned instances are hard to avoid for you.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the previous dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose since this can be dangerous.
Important Note: This drug should not be used during pregnancy. Doing so can cause serious harm, abnormalities or death to the fetus. If you become pregnant while taking Lovastatin, contact your doctor immediately.
Storage: Lovastatin must be tightly sealed and kept at room temperature. Do not store it at places with excessive heat or places with excessive moisture (such as the bathroom). Keep it out of the reach of children.
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