Lovastatin is a cholesterol lowering drug that works like Atorvastatin, which is primarily by blocking the enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis, especially in the liver, and hence reduces cholesterol levels. It is the first-line medication used for hypercholesterolaemia or hyperlipidemia (elevated blood cholesterol).
The detailed indications of Lovastatin include
Lovastatin is taken by mouth as conventional tablets. You usually start with 10-20 mg daily in the evening with food. Your doctor may increase the dose up to 80 mg at least every 4 weeks according to your blood cholesterol level.
If you are taking Lovastatin for prevention of cardiovascular events, the dose to be taken depends on your risk level (such as family history of hypercholesterolemia, high blood pressure) , ranging from 20-40 mg once a day.
The most common side effects of Lovastatin are muscle pain, muscle weakness, and shoulder pain. Rare side effects include an increased risk of diabetes, cognitive impairment (inability to focus or remember) and rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown).
Common dosing schedule:
You can take Lovastatin once a day with the evening meal. Take the drug at the same time every day.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Lovastatin may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Lovastatin is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Lovastatin in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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