Rosuvastatin (roe-SOO-va-sta-tin) is used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride (fat-like substances) levels in the blood. Using this medicine may help prevent medical problems caused by such substances clogging the blood vessels.

Rosuvastatin belongs to the group of medicines called 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors. It works by blocking an enzyme that is needed by the body to make cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol in the blood.

Rosuvastatin is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:

Oral
Tablets (U.S. and Canada)

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. DO NOT TAKE ANTACIDS for at least 2 hours after taking this medicine

SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include constipation, headache, stomach upset, or weakness. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. THIS MEDICINE MAY RARELY cause muscle damage that can lead to a very serious condition called rhabdomyolysis. STOP TAKING THIS MEDICINE AND CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you develop fever; muscle pain, cramping, tenderness, or weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness); chest pain; yellowing eyes and skin; dark urine; nausea or vomiting; or stomach pain. AN ALLERGIC REACTION TO THIS MEDICINE is unlikely but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately

FOR BEST RESULTS, this medicine should be used along with exercise, a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet, and a weight loss program if you are overweight. FOLLOW THE DIETARY PLAN provided by your doctor. DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children and pets. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

This medicine is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (also known as a statin) used with a proper diet to help lower cholesterol and fat (triglyceride) levels and to raise good cholesterol (HDL) levels in your blood. Reducing cholesterol and triglycerides may help to prevent strokes and heart attacks. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

To store this medicine:

Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature.
Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Ask your health care professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly to lower your cholesterol and triglyceride levels and to decide if you should continue to take it.

Check with your doctor immediately if you think that you may be pregnant. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors may cause birth defects or other problems in the baby if taken during pregnancy.

Before having any kind of surgery (including dental surgery) or emergency treatment, tell the medical doctor or dentist in charge that you are taking this medicine.

Do not use excessive amounts of alcohol while taking rosuvastatin because it can worsen the adverse effects of this medicine on the liver.

Check with your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if it is accompanied by unusual tiredness or fever, because the medicine's adverse effects on muscle can lead to serious kidney problems.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.