Lesterol

Indications

Fluvastatin is a cholesterol-lowering medicine (a statin). It is used together with diet to lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglycerides and raise HDL ("good") cholesterol in adults and some children with high cholesterol. It is also used after procedures such as coronary angioplasty to lower the risk of further heart problems.

How It Works

Fluvastatin blocks HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme the liver uses to make cholesterol. When the liver makes less cholesterol, it pulls more LDL cholesterol out of the blood. Over time this lowers cholesterol levels and slows the build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries.

Dosage and Administration

Usual adult dose: 20 mg to 40 mg once daily in the evening, or 80 mg once daily as an extended-release tablet (taken at any time of day). Some people take 40 mg twice daily. Swallow tablets whole with water, with or without food. Your doctor will adjust the dose based on blood tests. Keep following a low-fat diet and keep taking it even if you feel well.

Interactions

Tell your doctor if you take Fluconazole, Ciclosporin, Fibrates (such as Gemfibrozil), Niacin, Colchicine, Fusidic acid, Warfarin, Glibenclamide, Phenytoin or Rifampicin, as these can raise the risk of muscle problems or change blood levels. If you take a bile acid binder such as Colestyramine, take Fluvastatin at least 4 hours later.

Contraindications

Do not use if you are allergic to Fluvastatin, have active liver disease or unexplained raised liver enzymes, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Side Effects

Common side effects include indigestion, stomach pain, nausea, headache and trouble sleeping. Some people get muscle aches. Rarely, statins cause serious muscle damage, liver problems, or a small rise in blood sugar.

Get urgent medical help if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, especially with fever or dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, 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 cholesterol is needed for the baby's development. Women who could become pregnant should use reliable contraception. Stop and tell your doctor if you become pregnant. Do not use while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

Your doctor may check liver tests before and during treatment. Tell your doctor if you drink a lot of alcohol, have kidney disease, an underactive thyroid, past muscle problems, or diabetes. Risk of muscle problems is higher in people over 70. Stop taking it a few days before major surgery if your doctor advises.

Overdose

Experience with overdose is limited. Seek medical help if a large amount has been taken; treatment is supportive.

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.