Rosuvastatin

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Crestor, Rosvator, Storwin, Vusor, Zuvamor

Drug group:

Lipid-lowering drug, statin

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Rosuvastatin is a statin (lipid-lowering drug) that is:

• Used in the treatment of hypercholesterolaemia (high blood cholesterol) – especially in people at risk of developing, or have existing, coronary artery disease or stroke
• Prescribed to people who have not responded to other forms of therapy, such as a special diet or less potent statins

How does it work?

• Cholesterol is a lipid (fat) that is naturally produced by the liver, and is needed for the production of other body chemicals
• Rosuvastatin inhibits an enzyme involved in the manufacture of cholesterol
• It is more potent than other statins - lower cholesterol levels achieved with lower doses

How should it be used?

Diet forms an important part of cholesterol lowering management

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Total daily dose for adults: 5–40mg taken at night, starting dose 10mg, increased to 20mg after 4 weeks, and if necessary to a maximum dose of 40mg
• Rosuvastatin is more potent in people of Asian origin, they are therefore given lower starting doses, total daily dose 5–20mg

How quickly will it start to work?

2–4 weeks

How long will the effects last?

24 hours

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor.

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Long-term use can cause liver abnormalities. You may need regular blood tests to test for muscle toxicity and assess liver function.                 

What are the possible side effects?

The side effects of rosuvastatin are usually mild and wear off with time.

The following have been reported:

• More common: abdominal pain, constipation/diarrhoea, nausea, flatulence, headache, sleep disturbance
• Less common: muscle pains
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash, jaundice, muscle tenderness/pain/weakness

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney problems, personal or family history of muscle problems, porphyria
• Other medicines: Ciclosporin, warfarin, erythromycin, oestrogens, gemfibrozil and other lipid-lowering drugs, antacids, antiretroviral drugs
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not recommended, safety not established
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: Reduced initial dose
• Driving and hazardous work: No special problems
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive amounts, increased risk of developing liver problems