Mevacor

Mevacor (Lovastatin) is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, also known as a statin. It works by reducing the production of certain fatty substances in the body, including cholesterol.

About

Mevacor is used, along with diet, to lower cholesterol levels in people with primary hypercholesterolemia (too much cholesterol in the bloodstream). High cholesterol levels foster the buildup of artery-clogging plaque, which can be especially dangerous when it collects in the vessels serving the muscles of the heart. Mevacor is prescribed to prevent this problem—called coronary heart disease—or to slow its advance if the arteries are already clogging up. Mevacor is usually prescribed only if diet, exercise, and weight-loss fail to bring your cholesterol levels under control. It's important to remember that Mevacor is a supplement—not a substitute—for these other measures. To get the full benefit of the medication, you need to stick to the diet and exercise program prescribed by your doctor.

How to take

Mevacor should be taken with meals.

Missed dose

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

Warnings and precautions

Before taking Mevacor, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if you have allergies to medicines, if you are allergic to any ingredient in Mevacor, if you have low blood pressure, a serious infection, kidney problems, diabetes, or a history of seizures, if you are very ill, have certain muscle problems (e.g., pain, weakness), or have metabolism, hormonal, or electrolyte problems, if you drink alcohol or have a history of liver problems or alcohol abuse, have a certain type of high cholesterol (homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia), have had an organ transplant or have recently had major surgery or a serious injury, if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breast–feeding. Do not use Mevacor if you are pregnant. It may cause harm to the fetus. Avoid becoming pregnant while you are taking it. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. It is not known if Mevacor is found in breast milk. Do not breast–feed while you are taking Mevacor. Some medicines may interact with Mevacor. Therefore tell your doctor of all prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement that you are taking. Do not take Mevacor if you have liver problems or unexplained abnormal liver function tests, if you are taking a macrolide antibiotic (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), an HIV protease inhibitor (e.g., ritonavir), itraconazole, ketoconazole, mibefradil, nefazodone, or telithromycin. Drinking alcohol daily or in large amounts may increase the risk of liver problems with Mevacor. Follow the diet and exercise program given to you by your doctor. Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Mevacor before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery. Report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness to your doctor right away, especially if you also have a fever or general body discomfort. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Mevacor. Mevacor should be used with extreme caution in children younger than 10 years old and in those who have not reached puberty. Safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

Side effects

ide effects may include: Abdominal pain/cramps, altered sense of taste, blurred vision, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, gas, headache, heartburn, indigestion, itching, muscle cramps, muscle pain, muscle weakness with rash, nausea, rash, weakness

Storage

Store Mevacor at 59 to 86 °F (15 to 30 °C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Mevacor out of the reach of children.