|
Lovastatin, combined with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, can help reduce the amount of cholesterol in the blood. Also known as Altoprev or Mevacor, Lovastatin is part of a class of medications called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins). It is effective because it helps to slow down the body’s cholesterol production.
This medication is available by prescription only and should be taken only by prescribed and by the person it is intended for. Lovastatin should not be taken with large amounts of grapefruit juice or grapefruit products in general because these can cause an increase in the level of lovastatin in the body. Altoprev, which is just another name for Lovstatin, is available in tablet form in regular or extended release. This medication is not recommended for children or women who are pregnant and/or nursing. Individuals who are taking the following medications should let their doctors know as lovistatin has been known to interact negatively with these: fosamprenavir, itraconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil and tipranavir.
Prior to receiving your prescription of this medication, your doctor will need to take a complete and detailed medical history. You should make him/her aware of the following:
- History of alcohol abuse
- Liver problems
- Diabetes mellitus
- Kidney disease, especially if it’s severe
- High liver enzymes, etc.
If you miss a dose of the medication, don’t double up. Just wait until your next scheduled dose and take the medication then. Your doctor will need to check your liver levels before you begin taking Lovastatin.
Before you have any kind of surgery, including dental surgery, or emergency treatment, you should let your specialist know. It’s possible that special arrangements will need to be made regarding your care.
It would be wise to avoid alcohol as much as possible while on this medication as it can have a negative impact on the liver. You will want to contact your doctor immediately if you have any of the following signs and/or symptoms while taking this medication:
- Unexplained muscle pain,
- Tenderness,
- Weakness,
- Unusual tiredness,
- Fever, etc.
Each of these can be a sign of a condition that can lead to serious kidney problems known as rhabdomyolosis.
Common side effects of lovestatin include, but are not limited to. If you experience any of these, you will probably want to talk to your doc as soon as you can. Some of these side effects can be rather serious:
- Bladder pain
- Headache
- Chest tightness
- Bloody or cloudy urine
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Joint pain
- Lower back or side pain
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Breathing problems
- Excess air or gas in the stomach and/or intestines
- Constipation
- Cramps, spasms, muscle stiffness or weakness
- Wheezing
- Belching
- Dark-colored urine (dark yellow or brown)
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Rash, etc.
If you notice any other symptoms not listed here, or just don’t feel quite right, you are urged to seek advice from a competent medical professional.
Disclaimer: The information posted here is not meant to replace the counsel of a qualified medical health professional or doctor. When in doubt, please contact your doctor. Do NOT attempt to self-diagnose or treat!
|
