Lovastatin

Information About Lovastatin

Uses of Lovastatin

Lovastatin is commonly used in the treatment of high cholesterol, high ldl levels, high triglycerides and low hdl good cholesterol

How Lovastatin Works

Lovastatin is a dyslipidaemic agent belonging to the class of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. Lovastatin works by inhibiting competitively HMG-CoA reductase which is a rate limiting step in the process of cholesterol biosynthesis.

Side Effects of Lovastatin

Drowsiness, Nausea, Difficulty sleeping (insomnia), Dizziness, Headache, Arthralgia, Blurred vision, Rash, Myopathy

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Lovastatin Related Warnings

Alcohol Use With Care

Alcohol and Lovastatin may further cause the rise of liver enzyme and need to be caution on chronic/abuse alcohol user.

Pregnancy Not Safe - High Risk

Lovastatin is contraindicated in pregnancy. Animal and human studies have revealed positive fetal risk with the use of Lovastatin. Lovastatin should be immediately stopped if pregnancy occurs. Please consult your doctor.

Lactation Not Advisable

Lovastatin is probably not safe to use during lactation. Lovastatin is excreted into breast milk.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Lovastatin may cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness or visual disturbances, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Use With Care

Lovastatin should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Lovastatin may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Liver Use With Care

Lovastatin is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease.