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Home > Drug Category > Cholesterol Medications > Mevacor and Equivalent

Mevacor Information

Mevacor (lovastatin) is a medication belonging to the class of drugs called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, commonly known as statins. It is primarily used, along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, to lower elevated levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, also known as "bad" cholesterol) in the blood. It can also help reduce triglyceride levels and increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, also known as "good" cholesterol). Lovastatin works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase in the liver, a key enzyme in cholesterol production. By inhibiting this enzyme, Mevacor reduces the amount of cholesterol the body produces, thereby lowering blood cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes.

Mevacor Side Effects

The most common side effects of Mevacor may include headache, muscle pain, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, dyspepsia (indigestion), flatulence, dizziness, and rash. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Allergic reactions: Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, hives, or trouble breathing.
• Cognitive impairment: Memory loss, forgetfulness, or confusion.
• Liver problems: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, light-colored stools, or persistent nausea and vomiting.
• Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (myopathy or rhabdomyolysis): This can be severe and may be accompanied by fever or unusual tiredness.
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas): Severe stomach pain.

Mevacor Precautions

Do not use Mevacor if you are allergic to lovastatin or any of its ingredients. Do not use Mevacor if you have active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations in liver enzymes, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Before starting this medication, inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have a history of liver or kidney problems, alcohol abuse, severe infection, trauma, surgery, or an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Mevacor can interact with many other drugs. You should not use Mevacor if you are taking potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., certain antifungals, such as ketoconazole; antibiotics like erythromycin; HIV protease inhibitors), cyclosporine, gemfibrozil, or danazol, due to a significantly increased risk of serious muscle problems (myopathy/rhabdomyolysis). The combination with other fibrates (e.g., fenofibrate) or high doses of niacin should be used with caution due to an increased risk of muscle problems. Avoid grapefruit or products containing grapefruit juice while taking Mevacor, as it can increase the levels of lovastatin in your body, potentially increasing the risk of muscle injury. Limit alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of liver problems. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Mevacor is contraindicated during pregnancy as it may harm an unborn baby by interfering with cholesterol synthesis, which is essential for fetal development. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while taking Mevacor. If you become pregnant while taking Mevacor, stop taking it immediately and contact your doctor. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Mevacor is contraindicated during breastfeeding due to the potential for adverse effects on a nursing infant, as cholesterol is essential for infant development. The safety and effectiveness of Mevacor in pediatric patients younger than 10 years of age have not been established. In older adults (65 years and older), muscle-related side effects may be more likely.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Mevacor is typically taken once daily with the evening meal. Swallow the tablet whole; do not split, chew, or crush it. Your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it over time. Continue using the medication for the full prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Regular blood tests, including baseline and periodic liver function tests, will be necessary to monitor your cholesterol levels, ensure the medication is working correctly, and check for any unwanted effects. Store Mevacor at room temperature (between 20°C and 25°C or 68°F and 77°F). Protect from light. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Mevacor?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Mevacor.