What is this medication for?
Rosuvastatin belongs to the group of medications known as statin drugs
that lower cholesterol. It is used (along with a healthy diet and exercise
program) to lower cholesterol levels. It works by blocking the enzyme that
helps make cholesterol in the body. This decreases the overall level of cholesterol
in the blood. Individuals with high blood cholesterol levels have a higher risk
of heart diseases such as a heart attack.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those
listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all
of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor
or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do
not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms
as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their
doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Crestor® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Before starting rosuvastatin, you should be placed on a cholesterol-lowering
diet. If appropriate, a program of weight control and physical exercise should
be implemented.
The usual recommended starting dose of rosuvastatin is 10 mg once
daily. It may be taken in the morning or in the evening, with or without
food. If necessary, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 40 mg/day.
It is recommended that those people who require a dose 40 mg/day be under
the supervision of a specialist.
A starting dose of 5 mg/day is recommended for people of Asian descent
(Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, or Asian-Indian origin) and
those who have severe kidney problems. This low dose should also be considered
for people who do not need aggressive cholesterol-lowering effects and for people
who may be at a greater risk of experiencing muscle-related problems.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from moisture, and keep
it out of the reach of children.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change
the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your
doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your
regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose
and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose
to make up for a missed one.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Rosuvastatin should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to rosuvastatin or any ingredient of this medication
- has active liver disease or increased liver test results
- is pregnant
- is breast-feeding