Drug Name

Rosuvastatin

Drug Uses

Rosuvastatin is used for lowering high cholesterol and triglycerides in certain patients. It also increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL, "good") cholesterol levels. It is also used to slow atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries) in patients with high blood cholesterol levels. It is used along with an appropriate diet. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How to use

Use Rosuvastatin as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
An extra patient leaflet is available with Rosuvastatin . Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.
Take Rosuvastatin by mouth with or without food.
If you also take an antacid that has aluminum or magnesium in it, take it at least 2 hours after taking Rosuvastatin . Check with your doctor if you have any questions.
Continue to take Rosuvastatin even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Rosuvastatin is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, also known as a "statin." It works by reducing the production of certain fatty substances in the body, including cholesterol.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Rosuvastatin, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Rosuvastatin at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 to 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Rosuvastatin out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do NOT use Rosuvastatin if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Rosuvastatin
• you have liver problems or unexplained abnormal liver function tests
• you are pregnant or breast-feeding
• you are taking itraconazole, mibefradil, or telithromycin

Some medical conditions may interact with Rosuvastatin . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are planning to become pregnant
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if you have low blood pressure, a serious infection, kidney problems, an underactive thyroid, diabetes, or a history of seizures
• if you are dehydrated or have certain muscle problems (eg, pain, weakness); have increased creatine phosphokinase (CPK) blood levels; or have metabolism, hormonal, or electrolyte problems
• if you are on dialysis
• if you drink alcohol or have a history of liver problems or alcohol abuse
• if you have had an organ transplant or have recently had major surgery or a serious injury

Possible Side Effects

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:
Constipation; sore throat.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain; dark urine; joint pain; muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (with or without fever or fatigue); pale stools; severe or persistent headache; stomach pain; swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet; yellowing of the eyes or skin.

More Information

If you have any questions about Rosuvastatin , please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
Rosuvastatin is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.