What It Is Used For
Rosuvastatin is a statin. It lowers “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, raises “good” HDL slightly, and reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.
How to Take It
Usually 5 mg to 10 mg once a day, at any time of day, with or without food. People of Asian origin often start at 5 mg because the medicine stays at higher levels in their blood. The doctor may increase it to 20 mg, and rarely 40 mg.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you are allergic to rosuvastatin, have active liver disease, severe kidney disease (for the 40 mg dose), muscle disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take ciclosporin.
Side Effects
Common: headache, muscle aches, stomach pain, constipation, nausea and weakness. Rarely it causes serious muscle damage: stop and see a doctor if you have unexplained muscle pain or weakness, or dark urine. It can slightly raise blood sugar.
Precautions
Your doctor may check liver and kidney tests. Tell your doctor if you drink a lot of alcohol or have thyroid problems.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not take it during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Interactions
Ciclosporin, gemfibrozil, some HIV medicines and fusidic acid raise the risk of muscle damage. It can increase the effect of warfarin. Take antacids at least 2 hours after rosuvastatin.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, out of the reach of children.