Indications
Mevacor is a prescription medication used to treat high cholesterol levels in the blood. Mevacor, which is the brand name of lovastatin, works by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver called HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for producing cholesterol.
By inhibiting this enzyme, Mevacor can lower the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver, ultimately reducing the levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol in the blood, and also triglycerides levels, while increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Uses and Dosage
Mevacor is available in the form of tablets that should be taken orally as directed by your healthcare provider. Typically, it is taken once daily with your evening meal, although some patients may be directed to take it twice daily. If you take other drugs to lower your cholesterol, such as bile acid-binding resins like cholestyramine or colestipol, you should take Mevacor at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after taking these medications. These products can interfere with the absorption of Mevacor.
The recommended dosage of Mevacor is based on individual circumstances, such as cholesterol levels, medical history, response to treatment, age, and other medications being taken. However, the usual recommended dosages of Lovastatin for adults is typically 20 mg once a day, taken with the evening meal. The dosage may be increased by the doctor, if necessary, with a maximum recommended dose of 80 mg per day. However, the actual dosage may vary depending on the individual's specific medical condition, age, and response to treatment.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Mevacor (Lovastatin):
- Back pain
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain/tenderness/weakness
- Nausea
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Stomach pain
- Stomach upset
Serious Side Effects of Mevacor (Lovastatin):
- Allergic reactions
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Hives
- Swelling of the face
- Lips
- Tongue
- Throat
- High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
- Blurry vision
- Fatigue
- Increased thirst or amount of urine
- Unusual weakness
- Right upper belly pain
- Loss of appetite
- Light-colored stool
- Dark yellow or brown urine
- Yellowing skin or eyes
- Unusual weakness
- Fatigue
- Muscle injury
- Unusual weakness
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
- Dark yellow
- Brown urine
- Decrease in amount of urine
- Redness
- Blistering
- Peeling or loosening of the skin
- Including inside the mouth
Form and Strength
Mevacor (Lovastatin) is available in the following forms and strength:
Lovastatin: Tablet
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
Caution
- Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol while taking Mevacor, as this can increase the risk of liver problems.
- Inform your doctor if you have any history of liver disease or if you currently have liver problems, as Mevacor may worsen these conditions.
- Be cautious when taking Mevacor if you have a history of muscle conditions like myopathy, as Mevacor may increase the risk of muscle problems or rhabdomyolysis.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as Mevacor may harm the fetus.
- While using Mevacor, avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit can increase the amount of this medication in your bloodstream.
- Inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as Mevacor may interact with certain medications and cause serious side effects.
- If you experience any symptoms of liver problems such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, or dark urine, stop taking Mevacor and contact your doctor immediately.
- Mevacor may interact with certain medications and cause serious side effects, including muscle pain, weakness, or cramping. Inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications: erythromycin, clarithromycin, telithromycin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole, HIV medications, or medications containing niacin.
- Mevacor should not be taken by anyone with an allergy to lovastatin or any of its ingredients, including red yeast rice extract.
- Mevacor may cause dizziness or blurred vision, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
- If you are elderly, have thyroid problems or kidney disease, or have ever had an allergic reaction to any medication, consult your doctor before taking Mevacor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Mevacor be taken with other medications?
Mevacor can interact with certain medications, including some antibiotics and medications used to treat HIV. Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking before starting Mevacor.
Can Mevacor be taken with food?
Mevacor can be taken with or without food. However, taking Mevacor with certain foods, such as grapefruit or grapefruit juice, may increase the risk of side effects.
How long does it take for Mevacor to start working?
The effectiveness of Mevacor can vary from person to person. In general, it may take several weeks or months of taking Mevacor regularly to see a significant improvement in cholesterol levels.
Is Mevacor safe for long-term use?
Mevacor is considered safe for long-term use. However, regular monitoring of liver function is recommended to detect any potential liver problems.
Resources
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19598-lovastatin-tablets
- https://www.rxlist.com/mevacor-side-effects-drug-center.htm
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/mevacor.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-11194/mevacor-oral/details
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/019643s088lbl.pdf
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