What is Fluvastatin?
The use of fluvastatin in conjunction with diet is intended to reduce blood levels of "bad cholesterol" (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL), increase "good cholesterol" (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL), and lower triglycerides. Fluvastatin helps to reduce the accumulation of plaque in blood vessels. Fluvastatin can also be used to reduce the risk of heart complications for certain people who have coronary artery disease. Fluvastatin can be used by adults and children over 10 years of age. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of fluvastatin.
Side effects of Fluvastatin
If you experience any of the following signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing or swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat. Please seek medical assistance immediately. Fluvastatin may cause kidney failure in rare cases. If you experience unexplained pain or tenderness or if your urine is dark in color, you should call your doctor immediately.
Call your doctor immediately if you:
- You may experience muscle weakness in the hips, shoulders, and neck.
- Having difficulty standing or climbing or lifting your arms;
- Signs of kidney disease: little or no urinating; painful or difficult urination; swelling of your ankles or feet; fatigue or shortness of breath.
- Liver problems: upper stomach pain, fatigue, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice
Fluvastatin side effects include:
- Muscle pain;
- Headache;
- Stomach pain, nausea, or indigestion.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice about side effects, always contact your physician first. Alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin, lipitor, ezetimibe, fenofibrate, and Crestor
Warnings
Fluvastatin should not be taken if you suffer from liver disease or if your baby is still breastfeeding. Do not use it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Fluvastatin may interact with other medications and cause unwanted or adverse side effects. Make sure to inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are currently taking.
Before you take this drug
Fluvastatin should not be taken if you have an allergy to it or if
- You have liver disease that is active.
- You are pregnant or nursing.
Fluvastatin may harm an unborn child. To prevent pregnancy, use birth control. If you become pregnant, stop taking the medicine immediately and inform your doctor. Do not breastfeed while using this medicine.
Tell your physician if any of the following apply to you:
- Liver disease
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes;
- A thyroid disorder
- If you consume more than two alcoholic drinks every day, this may increase your risk for alcoholism.
Fluvastatin may cause kidney failure by causing a condition in which skeletal muscle tissue is broken down. This condition is more common in older adults, people with kidney disease, and those who are hypothyroid (an underactive thyroid). Fluvastatin should not be used by children under 10 years of age.
How to take Fluvastatin?
Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. Your medication must be taken precisely as prescribed. This medicine can be taken with or without food, but it should always be taken with water. Take the regular capsule or tablet at the same time each day. Extended-release tablets may be taken at any time. Be sure to heed your doctor's directions! Do not open, crush, chew, or break the pill. If you are having trouble swallowing a pill, tell your doctor. Medical tests will be required frequently. Your cholesterol levels may not improve for up to four weeks.Even if you feel fine, continue taking this medication as prescribed. High cholesterol is usually asymptomatic. Fluvastatin may be part of an overall treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, and weight management. You should follow your doctor's advice. Store products away from moisture, heat and light at room temperature to preserve quality and freshness.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you miss a dose, take it immediately. However, if the dose is more than 12 hours past its due date, skip the missed dose. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
Fluvastatin is less effective if you avoid foods that are high in cholesterol or fat. Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can increase triglyceride and liver damage risks.
Interaction with other drug
Fluvastatin can cause serious muscle problems when taken with certain drugs. If you take any of these drugs, your doctor may have to alter your treatment plan.
- Gemfibrozil, fenofibric acid, and fenofibrate
- Medicines that contain niacin, including advicor, niaspan (simcor), slo niacin, and others
Inform your doctor of all the medications you are taking. Fluvastatin can be affected by many drugs, including:
- Other cholesterol medications
- Antifungal or antibacterial medicine
- Diabetes medicine;
- Heart medication
- Seizure medication;
- Medicine to treat excessive stomach acid or ulcers.
This list does not include all the drugs that can interact with fluvastatin. This includes over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. List all of your medications with any healthcare professional who treats you.
