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Common uses
Generic Mevacor is an hmg-coa reductase inhibitor (also known as a "statin") used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in your blood. Generic Mevacor may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Directions
Follow the directions for using Generic Mevacor provided by your doctor. If you take 1 dose daily, take it with your evening meal unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition, response to therapy, and use of certain interacting medicines. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice at the same time you take Generic Mevacor.
Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of Generic Mevacor, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Before using
Do not take Generic Mevacor if you are also taking gemfibrozil, hiv protease inhibitors (such as ritonavir, lopinavir, or nelfinavir), azole antifungals (such as itraconazole or ketoconazole), macrolide antibiotics (such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, or troleandomycin), or nefazodone. If you are currently taking any of these medicines, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting to take this medicine. Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking amiodarone, "blood thinners" such as bosentan, cyclosporine, diltiazem, dalfopristin, fluconazole, imatinib, high doses of niacin (1 gram or more per day), fibrates (such as clofibrate or fenofibrate), verapamil, quinupristin, voriconazole, warfarin, or st. John's wort. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, including alcohol use, allergies (especially to other "statins"), muscle problems, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Use of Generic Mevacor is not recommended if you have a history of liver disease or abnormal liver function test results. Certain medical conditions, including low blood pressure; severe infection; uncontrolled seizures; or serious metabolic, endocrine, or electrolyte problems may increase your risk for side effects that can result in kidney problems while taking this medicine. Contact your doctor if you develop one of these conditions. Contact your pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking Generic Mevacor.
Cautions
Do not take Generic Mevacor if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. Laboratory and/or medical tests, including liver function tests and blood cholesterol levels, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are using this medicine. Before having any kind of surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine. Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while you are taking Generic Mevacor may increase the amount of this medicine in your blood, which may increase your risk for serious side effects. Talk with your doctor before including grapefruit or grapefruit juice in your diet while you are taking this medicine.
Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor.
For women: do not use Generic Mevacor if you are pregnant. If you suspect that you could be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. It is recommended that women of childbearing age use effective birth control measures while taking this medicine since lovastatin may cause fetal harm. It is unknown if Generic Mevacor is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.
Possible side effects
A side effect that may occur while taking Generic Mevacor include constipation. If it continues or is bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience rash, yellow skin or eyes, unusual bleeding or bruising, or sore throat. This medicine may infrequently cause muscle damage (which can rarely lead to a very serious condition called rhabdomyolysis). Stop taking Generic Mevacor and contact your doctor immediately if you experience muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness). An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include dizziness, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your pharmacist.
Additional information
For best results, Generic Mevacor should be used along with exercise, a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet, and a weight loss program if you are overweight. Follow the dietary plan provided by your doctor. Do not share Generic Mevacor with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets. If using Generic Mevacor for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
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