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
Warnings
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.
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.
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.
Liver Use With Care
Lovastatin is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease.
Lactation Not Advisable
Lovastatin is probably not safe to use during lactation. Lovastatin is excreted into breast milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
