Rosuvastatin
Uses of Rosuvastatin
Rosuvastatin is commonly used in the treatment of High Cholesterol, High Ldl Levels, High Triglycerides, and Low Hdl (Good Cholesterol).
How Rosuvastatin Works
Rosuvastatin is a dyslipidaemic agent. It inhibits HMG-CoA reductase which is responsible for cholesterol synthesis. As a result, it increases the number of hepatic LDL receptors on the cell surface, reinforcing uptake and catabolism of LDL. Besides, it also reduces the amount of apolipoprotein B, triglycerides and increases HDL levels.
Side Effects of Rosuvastatin
Headache, Dizziness, Nausea and vomiting, Abdominal pain, Chest pain, Peripheral oedema, Muscle pain, Rash, Abnormal liver function
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Rosuvastatin should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Rosuvastatin is not necessary for mild to moderate renal impairment. 40mg Rosuvastatin cannot be used in patients with moderate renal impairment. Rosuvastatin cannot be used at all if the patient has severe renal impairment.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Rosuvastatin because it may worsen the side effects such as headache, dizziness, nausea and further impair the liver function.
Pregnancy Not Safe - High Risk
Rosuvastatin is proven unsafe to use during pregnancy. Both animal and human studies have shown fetal abnormalities or fetal risk based on the adverse effects of Rosuvastatin in pregnant women.
Driving Generally Safe
There are no studies of Rosuvastatin on driving ability. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Use With Care
Rosuvastatin should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Rosuvastatin may be needed. However, Rosuvastatin is contraindicated for patients with active liver disease. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Not Advisable
Rosuvastatin is unsafe to use during lactation. No reports explaining the use of Rosuvastatin in human lactation are available. However, due to the expected excretion of Rosuvastatin in the milk, women who are taking Rosuvastatin should not breastfeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
