Indications 

Mevacor is a prescription medication used alongside diet, weight loss, and exercise to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. It also decreases the likelihood of requiring heart surgery for individuals with existing heart disease or those at risk of developing it. 

Mevacor is also indicated for reducing cholesterol levels and other lipid substances in the bloodstream. 

Classified as an HMG CoA reductase inhibitor (statin), Mevacor works by inhibiting cholesterol production in the body. This mechanism helps reduce the accumulation of cholesterol on arterial walls, thereby improving blood flow to the heart, brain, and other body regions. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with Mevacor and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. In case of any inquiries or uncertainties, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance. 

The dosage of Mevacor may vary per individual based on medical condition, response to the treatment, age, and concurrent medication use. 

Typically, this medication is taken once or twice a day with meals as prescribed by the doctor. Take it around the same times daily to achieve optimal results. 

Refrain from altering the prescribed dosage and frequency of intake of this medication without your doctor’s approval. 

Keep taking Mevacor even if you are feeling well, as many individuals with high cholesterol or triglyceride levels may not experience symptoms. Discontinuing this medication should only be done under the guidance of your doctor. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Mevacor. Inform your physician if any of them persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Back pain 
• Flu-like signs 

Serious Side Effects 

• Inability to pass urine or changes in urine output 
• Signs of liver problems: 
  • Dark urine 
  • Fatigue 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Upset stomach or abdominal pain 
  • Pale stools 
  • Vomiting 
  • Appearance of yellowing skin or eyes 

Call your doctor promptly if you experience any of the severe side effects above. 

Mevacor can induce muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, and in rare cases, severe muscle damage leading to kidney issues or even death. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience unusual muscle symptoms, with or without fever or malaise, or if such symptoms persist after discontinuing the medication as instructed by your doctor. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Mevacor may occur. Get prompt medical assistance if you observe any of the following symptoms: 

• Rash 
• Hives 
• Itching 
• Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever) 
• Wheezing 
• Tightness in the chest or throat 
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Mevacor. If you experience any unlisted effects, tell your doctor promptly.  

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Mevacor, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to lovastatin, other medications, or any ingredients present in Mevacor tablets. 

To ensure Mevacor is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Liver disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Alcohol use 

Some products may interact with Mevacor, including warfarin, daptomycin, and gemfibrozil. To lower the risk of such drug interactions, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription, nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you currently use or intend to use. 

The efficacy of Mevacor may be influenced by the presence of other medications that impact its removal from the body. Examples of such medications include: 

• Azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole) 
• Cobicistat 
• Colchicine 
• Cyclosporine 
• Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin) 
• Nefazodone 
• HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., lopinavir, ritonavir) 
• Telithromycin 

When taking bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol to lower cholesterol, take Mevacor either 1 hour before or 4 hours after to avoid any potential reaction that could hinder its absorption. 

Avoid the consumption of red yeast rice products while taking Mevacor, as these products may also contain lovastatin. Concurrent use of Mevacor and red yeast rice products can heighten the risk of severe muscle and liver complications. 

Consult with your doctor or pharmacist before consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Mevacor, as it may heighten the risk of side effects.  

Mevacor is contraindicated in pregnant or potentially pregnant women. It may only be given to women of childbearing age who are unlikely to conceive and have been informed of the risks. If pregnancy is detected, treatment should be stopped immediately. 

The transfer of lovastatin to breast milk is uncertain. To avoid potential harm to the baby, refrain from breastfeeding while taking this medication. Seek medical advice before nursing.