Indications
Pitavastatin is a statin used together with diet and exercise to lower high LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and total cholesterol, and to raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol, in adults with primary high cholesterol or mixed lipid disorders. Lowering cholesterol helps reduce the build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries that can lead to heart attack and stroke.
How It Works
Pitavastatin blocks an enzyme in the liver called HMG-CoA reductase, which the body needs to make cholesterol. When the liver makes less cholesterol, it removes more LDL cholesterol from the blood.
Dosage and Administration
Adults: usually 1 mg to 2 mg once a day to start; the doctor may increase it up to a maximum of 4 mg once a day depending on cholesterol results. It can be taken at any time of day, with or without food, but try to take it at the same time each day. People with kidney problems usually start at 1 mg and should not exceed 2 mg. Children: only as prescribed. Continue a low-fat diet and regular exercise.
Interactions
Do not take with Cyclosporine. Erythromycin and Rifampicin can raise its level, so the dose may need to be limited. Taking it with Gemfibrozil or other fibrates, or with Niacin, increases the risk of muscle problems. It may increase the effect of Warfarin, so clotting tests should be checked. Some HIV and hepatitis C medicines may also interact. Tell your doctor about all medicines.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Pitavastatin, have active liver disease or unexplained persistently raised liver enzymes, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking Cyclosporine.
Side Effects
Muscle aches, back pain, joint pain, constipation, diarrhoea and headache are the most common. Blood sugar may rise slightly in some people. Rarely, it may cause serious muscle damage (myopathy or rhabdomyolysis) or liver problems.
Get urgent medical help if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness (especially with fever or tiredness), dark or cola-coloured urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe stomach pain, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy, as it may harm the developing baby. Women who could become pregnant should use effective contraception and stop it and tell the doctor if pregnancy occurs. Do not breastfeed while taking it.
Precautions and Warnings
Your doctor may check liver tests and cholesterol levels. Tell your doctor if you drink a lot of alcohol, have kidney disease, an underactive thyroid, past muscle problems, or are over 70, as these raise the risk of muscle side effects. People with diabetes or at risk of it should have blood sugar checked.
Overdose
There is limited information. Seek medical advice; treatment is supportive and may include checking muscle and liver tests.
Therapeutic Class
Lipid-lowering agent, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.