Crestor

The active ingredient in Crestor is rosuvastatin calcium. belongs to a group of drugs called HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, or "statins." Crestor works by inhibiting an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for making cholesterol in the liver. By reducing your LDL-C (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels and increasing the levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, Crestor stops plaque from building up in your blood vessels. This helps decrease your risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart attack.

Follow all directions given by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full prescribing information, FDA-approved product labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Crestor. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Crestor:

• Crestor is typically taken once daily, with or without food. Do not chew, split, or crush your tablet before taking it.
• If you’re having a difficult time swallowing your medication, speak to your doctor about potentially taking a different dosage form of rosuvastatin (Ezallor), so that you can sprinkle the medication on applesauce.
• It is important to take Crestor as close to the same time each day as you can to maximize its benefits.
• Regular blood tests, including monitoring cholesterol levels are recommended to monitor the medication's effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments to the dosage. Make sure to set a timer to attend your appointments at the right time and not miss an important screening.
• If you accidentally miss a dose, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is closer in time to your next dose, skip this dose and take your next dose at your normal schedule.

The most common side effects of Crestor include:

• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Nausea
• Constipation

Other less common side effects include:

• Higher blood sugar
• Rash, hives, or itchy skin
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Crestor. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe allergic reaction
• Symptoms could include hives and swelling of the mouth, lips, or tongue.
• Serious muscle problems (myopathy), including severe muscle pain and damage (rhabdomyolysis)
• Worsening liver problems and potential liver failure
• Call your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms: tiredness, upper stomach pain, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), and dark urine.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Crestor. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Crestor, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Liver disease or high levels of liver enzymes in your blood
• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Crestor. It can increase your likelihood of liver damage.
• Kidney disease or a history of kidney problems
• Thyroid disorder
• Asian descent
• Patients of Asian descent may absorb rosuvastatin at a higher rate than other people. This can cause side effects such as muscle weakness/dysfunction. Ensure that your doctor knows if you come from Asian descent.
• A history of drinking two alcoholic beverages daily

The following are known contraindications with Crestor:

• Acute liver failure or decompensated cirrhosis.
• A known hypersensitivity to rosuvastatin or any ingredients in Crestor.

Crestor begins to lower cholesterol within about 2–4 weeks, with significant reductions in LDL cholesterol typically observed by the fourth week. Full therapeutic effects may be reached after about 4–6 weeks of consistent use. Regular lipid level checks will help track its effectiveness as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

When Crestor is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Coumadin (warfarin)
• Taking these medications together has a high chance of bleeding.
• Colcrys (colchicine)
• Cancer medicines, such as darolutamide or regorafenib
• Medicines that contain niacin or nicotinic acid
• Fibrates such as gemfibrozil
• Azole antifungals
• Cyclosporine
• Antiviral medicines used to treat HIV or hepatitis C, including - atazanavir, ritonavir, and sofosbuvir
• Antacids
• Speak to your doctor about which antacids you should be taking with Crestor.
• It is recommended that you take if you take antacids that have aluminum and magnesium hydroxide in them, you should not take it within 2 hours after taking Crestor. It can make Crestor less effective.

Crestor comes in an oral tablet with the following strengths:

• 5 mg
• 10 mg
• 20 mg
• 40 mg

To ensure optimal results, it is essential to follow the recommended dosage and administration guidelines for Crestor. The dosage prescribed will depend on various factors such as the individual's cholesterol levels, age, and overall health. Typically, the initial recommended dose ranges from 5 to 10 mg, which can be adjusted as necessary. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs.

Crestor should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat or moisture.

It is manufactured by AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals.

Currently, there are lower-cost generics available for the brand-name medication, Crestor. Other related medications include atorvastatin, simvastatin, Lipitor, and fenofibrate.

To stop taking Crestor, consult your healthcare provider, as they can guide you based on your specific health condition and cholesterol levels. Stopping Crestor suddenly may lead to an increase in cholesterol and potentially raise the risk of heart-related issues, especially if you’re at high risk. Your doctor might recommend alternative options or lifestyle adjustments to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels after discontinuation.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Crestor may cause harm to your unborn baby. It should be stopped right away if you become pregnant.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Crestor may pass into breast milk, so Crestor is currently not recommended for breastfeeding.