Rosuvastatin is a drug to lower rateLDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) and TGL (triglycerides), as well asincrease HDL cholesterol levels in the blood. As a result, the risk of heart and blood vessel disease will be reduced.
Fat in the form of cholesterol is formed naturally by the body from food and stored as a source of energy for the body. However, if the cholesterol level in the blood is too high, the risk of plaque buildup in the blood vessels (atherosclerosis) will increase.
Rosuvastatin works by reducing the formation of cholesterol by the liver, so that cholesterol levels in the blood are controlled. However, the use of rosuvastatin must be balanced with a low-fat or low-cholesterol diet and regular exercise, for maximum effect.
Rosuvastatin trademarks: Crestor, Nistrol, Oloduo, Recansa, Rosfion, Rostin, Rosufer, Rosupid, Roswin, Rovastar, Rovaster, Rovator, Rozact, Simrovas, Suvesco, Vastrol.
What is Rosuvastatin?
| group | statins |
| Category | Prescription drugs |
| Benefit | Reduce blood cholesterol levels and prevent blockage of blood vessels. |
| Consumed by | Adults and children |
| Rosuvastatin for pregnant and lactating women | Category X: Studies in experimental animals and humans have demonstrated fetal abnormalities or a risk to the fetus. Drugs in this category are contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant. Rosuvastatin passes into breast milk, so it should not be used during breastfeeding. |
| Drug form | Tablet |
Warnings Before Taking Rosuvastatin:
- Do not use rosuvastatin if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in this medicine.
- Do not take rosuvastatin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you are planning a pregnancy before using this medicine.
- Tell your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, or alcoholism.
- Do not consume alcoholic beverages while taking rosuvastatin, because it can increase the risk of developing liver disease.
- Older people are more at risk for the side effects of rosuvastatin, especially muscle disorders.
- Immediately consult a doctor if you experience an allergic reaction to the drug or an overdose after taking rosuvastatin.
Dosage and Instructions for UseRosuvastatin
The dose of rosuvastatin depends on the age of the patient, as described below:
- Adults: initial dose of 5–10 mg, once daily. The dose may be increased every 4 weeks to 20 mg daily. The maximum dose is 40 mg, once a day. The 40 mg dose should not be given to Asian patients.
- Children aged ≥10 years: initial dose 5 mg, once daily. If needed, the dose can be increased gradually every 4 weeks. The maximum dose is 20 mg, once a day.
Method Taking Rosuvastatin Correctly
Rosuvastatin can be taken before or after meals. For effective treatment, take rosuvastatin at the same time each day.
Use rosuvastatin as directed by your doctor. Do not increase the dose and duration of treatment, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
Swallow rosuvastatin tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, break, or crush the tablet before swallowing.
During treatment with rosuvastatin, you are recommended to limit the consumption of foods that are high in fat or cholesterol and exercise regularly to maximize the effect.
If you forget to take rosuvastatin, take it immediately if the next dose schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
While taking rosuvastatin, use birth control to prevent pregnancy, and ask your doctor for advice on the appropriate method of contraception.
Keep taking rosuvastatin even if your condition improves, and don't stop suddenly without your doctor's knowledge.
Interactions of Rosuvastatin with Other Drugs
The use of rosuvastatin together with other drugs can cause drug interactions. Drugs that may interact with rosuvastatin include:
- Gemfibrozil and ciclosporin. The effect is to increase the risk of developing rhabdomyolysis, which can be fatal.
- Fenofibrate and niacin. The effect is to increase the risk of muscle breakdown (myopathy).
- Warfarin and birth control pills. The effect is to increase the blood levels of warfarin and birth control pills.
- Itraconazole, an HIV protease inhibitor, such as lopinavir-ritonavir. Its effect is to increase the level of rosuvastatin in the blood.
- Antacids and erythromycin. Its effect is to lower blood levels of rosuvastatin.
Side Effects and Dangers of Rosuvastatin
Some of the side effects that may arise from the use of rosuvastatin are:
- dry throat
- Difficult to swallow
- Hoarseness
- Headache
- Difficulty moving
- Muscle pain or cramps
- Pain or swelling in the joints
Although rare, rosuvastatin can also cause allergic drug reactions and other serious side effects. Immediately see a doctor if the following symptoms appear:
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (sclera)
- Dark or foamy urine
- Nausea and vomiting constantly
- Unbearable stomach ache
- Memory disorder