What is Crestor?
Crestor (Rosuvastatin) is a cholesterol-lowering medication used to treat high cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. It belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which work by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol. By lowering cholesterol levels, Crestor helps prevent the buildup of plaque in arteries, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
What is Crestor used for?
Rosuvastatin, marketed under the brand name Crestor, is a prescription medication that belongs to the statin class of drugs. As such, it functions by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a crucial role in cholesterol synthesis within the liver. By blocking this enzyme, rosuvastatin significantly reduces the production of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol, thereby lowering overall cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Pharmacological Action
The mechanism of action for Crestor involves not only its primary role in inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase but also its indirect effects on other components involved in lipid metabolism. By lowering LDL cholesterol, rosuvastatin indirectly increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol and reduces triglycerides. This multifaceted approach contributes to a more comprehensive reduction in cardiovascular risk factors.
Indications
Rosuvastatin is indicated for the treatment of various conditions related to elevated cholesterol levels. These include primary hyperlipidemia, often characterized by high levels of LDL cholesterol without an underlying known cause, as well as mixed dyslipidemia and familial hypercholesterolemia. Additionally, Crestor has been approved to reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with type 2 diabetes and elevated LDL cholesterol levels.
Contraindications and Precautions
Patients should be aware that certain health conditions or the concurrent use of other medications may necessitate caution when using rosuvastatin. These include severe liver dysfunction, which may exacerbate the drug’s metabolism by the liver; a history of muscle problems (myopathy) while on statin therapy in the past; and active liver disease.
Common Usage and Dosing
Crestor is typically administered orally once daily, with dosages tailored to the individual patient based on their lipid profile. The starting dose for adults is usually 5 or 10 milligrams, which may be increased every two weeks as needed until a maximum reduction in LDL cholesterol is achieved, up to a typical adult dose of 40 milligrams per day.
Drug Interactions and Monitoring
It’s essential to note potential interactions between Crestor and other medications. These can include drugs affecting the liver or kidneys, certain antibiotics (such as erythromycin), HIV protease inhibitors, and antacids. Patients on rosuvastatin should be monitored for signs of muscle pain, liver damage, or renal impairment, especially if they are elderly.
Crestor side effects
• Abdominal pain • Asthenia • Ataxia • Bilirubinuria • Dyspepsia • Edema • Headache • Muscle spasms • Myalgia • Nausea • Peripheral edema • Pyrexia • Rash • Sleep disorder • Urinary frequency
Disclaimer
The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information provided here is based on general research and may not apply to individual circumstances. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any content on this website. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or health routine.