Lescol XL

The active ingredient in Lescol XL is fluvastatin sodium, which is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor or “statin”. Its mechanism of action includes blocking a liver enzyme that produces cholesterol. It will lower triglyceride levels and LDL-C (bad cholesterol) and increase HDL-C (good cholesterol).

Follow all directions given to you 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 Lescol. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Lescol:

• This medication is typically taken once a day, with or without food. Take at the same time of the day to maintain consistency.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose.

The most common side effects of Lescol XL include:

• Headache
• Stomach pain or abdominal pain
• Muscle pain
• Urinary tract infection
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Flu-like symptoms

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Lescol XL. 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: swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or face, shortness of breath, and hives
• Rhabdomyolysis or immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy: unexplained muscle pain or muscle weakness, along with unusual tiredness and fever
• Kidney problems: urinating less often than normal, swelling, and unexplained weight gain
• Liver problems: Loss of appetite, jaundice or yellowing of the skin, dark urine

These are not all of the possible side effects of Lescol XL. 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 Lescol XL, 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 whether you have:

• Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid)
• Muscle problems
• High blood sugar levels
• Active liver disease
• Uncontrolled epilepsy
• Known allergy to fluvastatin or statins similar to it, including atorvastatin, simvastatin, and atorvastatin
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant

• Known allergy to Lescol or any of the inactive ingredients in the product
• Known allergy to agents within the same drug class
• Liver failure or severe cirrhosis
• Pregnancy

The effects of fluvastatin will take 4 weeks to notice a decrease in your blood cholesterol levels.

When Lescol XL 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:

• Blood thinners, including warfarin
• Phenytoin
• Medications that affect the immune system, including cyclosporine
• Colchicine
• Niacin or fibrates including gemfibrozil or fenofibrate
• Medication for diabetes, including glyburide
• Medications for fungal infections, including fluconazole

The dosage forms available include immediate-release capsules or extended-release tablets. Immediate-release capsules are available in 20 mg and 40 mg strengths. While the extended-release tablets are available as Lescol XL 80 mg.

This lipid-lowering medication can be stored at room temperature away from heat and moisture.

The pharmaceutical company that manufactures Lescol XL is Novartis.

There are lower-cost alternatives for the brand-name Lescol XL.

This cholesterol-lowering agent can be stopped without tapering according to the product information. However, you should not stop taking Lescol XL or change your dose without first talking to your doctor.

This medication is unsafe and can cause harm to the unborn baby and, therefore, should not be used if you are pregnant. 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.

It is not known if this medication can pass through the breastmilk and affect the baby. However, it is not recommended for use if you are breastfeeding. 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.