Fluvastatin
Uses of Fluvastatin
Fluvastatin is commonly used to treat High Cholesterol, High Ldl Levels, High Triglyceride, Low HDL Good Cholesterol
How Fluvastatin Works
Fluvastatin works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase and responsible for cholesterol synthesis. This reduces the serum LDL, VLDL and increase the HDL cholesterol level in the blood.
Side Effects of Fluvastatin
Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Fatigue, Muscle weakness, Insomnia, Abdominal pain
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Although only a portion of metabolised Fluvastatin is excreted through urine, the use of Fluvastatin should be used with caution and dosage adjustment may be needed in patients with severe renal impairment.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is not advisable for the user to consume alcohol, especially on high doses when taking Fluvastatin due to potentially elevated liver enzymes.
Pregnancy Not Safe - High Risk
It is not clear whether there is harm to the fetal or not when Fluvastatin is given during pregnancy but due to the effect of Fluvastatin towards cholesterol synthesis, Fluvastatin is contraindicated to be used during pregnancy.
Driving Not advisable
It is not advisable to drive when taking Fluvastatin due to its potential side effects such as headache, insomnia and muscle weakness which can affect the ability to drive and concentrate.
Liver Use With Care
Fluvastatin is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease.
Lactation Not Advisable
Fluvastatin is contraindicated to be used during lactation as it is excreted in the human breastmilk. It is still not known what the effects of Fluvastatin in the breastfeeding infants hence the contraindications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
