Indications
- Rosuvastatin helps lower “bad” cholesterol and fats in the blood.
- It raises “good” cholesterol.
- Belongs to a group of drugs called “statins.”
- Reduces cholesterol production by the liver.
- Decreases risk of heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks.
- Lifestyle changes like proper diet, exercise, weight loss, and quitting smoking can enhance its effectiveness.
- Consult a doctor for more guidance.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Patient Information Leaflet before starting rosuvastatin and with each refill.
- Take orally once daily, with or without food, as directed by doctor.
- If taking capsules, swallow whole; do not crush or chew.
- If swallowing difficulty, follow manufacturer’s Instructions for Use
- Capsule contents may be sprinkled on soft food and swallowed without chewing.
- Use/discard mixture within 60 minutes, do not prepare in advance.
- Dosage depends on medical condition, response to treatment, age, race, and other medications.
- Inform doctor/pharmacist of all products used, including prescription, nonprescription, and herbal.
- Asians may start with lower dose due to sensitivity.
- Antacids with aluminum/magnesium may reduce drug absorption; take at least 2 hours apart.
- Take regularly at the same time each day for maximum benefit.
- Continue diet and exercise regimen as advised by doctor.
- Full benefit may take up to 4 weeks to achieve.
Side effects
- Medication prescribed considering benefit outweighing risks.
- Serious side effects rare in many users.
- Rare instances of mild memory problems or confusion reported.
- Statins may rarely induce or worsen diabetes; discuss risks with doctor.
- Immediate medical attention needed for serious side effects like foamy urine.
- Potential for muscle problems, including rhabdomyolysis and autoimmune myopathy.
- Notify doctor if experiencing muscle pain/weakness, signs of kidney issues.
- Rare occurrence of liver problems; seek immediate medical attention for symptoms.
- Very rare serious allergic reactions may happen; seek medical help for symptoms like rash, swelling, difficulty breathing.
- Not exhaustive list of side effects; consult doctor/pharmacist for any unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Inform doctor/pharmacist of allergies, inactive ingredients in rosuvastatin.
- Disclose medical history, especially liver/kidney disease, alcohol use.
- Inform healthcare provider of all products used before surgery.
- Limit alcohol intake: daily use may increase risk of liver problems.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to muscle problems.
- Use during pregnancy only if clearly necessary; discuss risks with doctor.
- Rosuvastatin passes into breast milk; breastfeeding not recommended while using medication; consult doctor.