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Mevacor |
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What is Mevacor and why is it prescribed? Mevacor is used, along with diet, to lower cholesterol levels in people with primary hypercholesterolemia. High cholesterol levels foster the buildup of artery-clogging plaque, which can be especially dangerous when it collects in the vessels serving the muscles of the heart. Mevacor is prescribed to prevent this problem, called coronary heart disease, or to slow its advance if the arteries are already clogging up. Mevacor is usually prescribed only if diet, exercise, and weight-loss fail to bring your cholesterol levels under control. It's important to remember that Mevacor is a supplement, not a substitute, for these other measures. To get the full benefit of Mevacor, you need to stick to the diet and exercise program prescribed by your doctor. How should you take Mevacor? Follow your doctors directions for taking Mevacor. Mevacor should be taken with meals. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Protect Mevacor from light. Store Mevacor at room temperature. Keep container tightly closed. Are there any Mevacor side effects? Mevacor side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Mevacor is generally well tolerated. Any side effects that have occurred have usually been mild and short-lived. Mevacor side effects may include abdominal pain/cramps, altered sense of taste, blurred vision, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, gas, headache, heartburn, indigestion, itching, muscle cramps, muscle pain, muscle weakness with rash, nausea, rash, and weakness. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Mevacor? If Mevacor is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Mevacor tends to enhance the blood-thinning effect of Coumadin. In rare instances, it can also cause muscle pain and potential kidney damage when combined with Clarithromycin (Biaxin), Clofibrate (Atromid-S), Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral), Erythromycin (E.E.S., PCE, others), Fenofibrate (Tricor), Fluconazole (DiFlucan), Gemfibrozil (Lopid), Itraconazole (Sporanox), Ketoconazole (Nizoral), Nefazodone (Serzone), Nicotinic acid or niacin (Niaspan), or Protease inhibitors (such as Agenerase, Crixivan, Fortovase, Invirase, Norvir, and Viracept). If you are taking Mevacor with any of these drugs, (or with large quantities of grapefruit juice), alert your doctor immediately at the first sign of muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by fever or general body discomfort. If you need to take erythromycin, Biaxin, Nizoral, or Sporanox, the doctor may temporarily take you off Mevacor. Are there any special warnings about Mevacor? If you are being treated for any disease that contributes to increased blood cholesterol, such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, nephrotic syndrome, dysproteinemia, or liver disease, your doctor will closely monitor your reaction to Mevacor. It is recommended that liver function tests be performed by your doctor before treatment with Mevacor begins, at 6 and 12 weeks after your treatment has started or your dosage has been raised, and periodically (about 6-month intervals) thereafter. If you are planning to have elective surgery, Mevacor should be discontinued a few days before the operation. This drug should be used with caution if you consume substantial quantities of alcohol or have a past history of liver disease. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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