Fluvastatin capsules
What do fluvastatin capsules do?
FLUVASTATIN (Lescol(R)) blocks the body's ability to make cholesterol. Fluvastatin can help lower blood cholesterol for patients who are at risk of getting heart disease or a stroke. It is only for patients whose cholesterol level is not controlled by diet. It is not a cure.
What should my health care professional know before I take fluvastatin?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• an alcohol problem
• any hormone disorder (such as diabetes, under-active thyroid)
• blood salt imbalance
• infection
• liver disease
• low blood pressure
• recent surgery
• seizures (convulsions)
• severe injury
• an unusual or allergic reaction to fluvastatin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take fluvastatin capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules with a drink of water. The capsules can be take with the evening meal or at bedtime. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with fluvastatin?
• alcohol
• cimetidine
• clopidogrel
• digoxin
• erythromycin
• herbal medicines such as Went Yeast (Cholestin(R))
• irbesartan
• medicines for treating HIV infections
• medicines that suppress your immune response (cyclosporine)
• medicines to lower cholesterol or triglycerides (examples: cholestyramine, clofibrate, fenofibrate, gemfibrozil, niacin)
• nefazodone
• omeprazole
• ranitidine
• rifampin
• warfarin
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking fluvastatin?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• fever
• muscle aches or cramps
• unusual tiredness or weakness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• difficulty sleeping
• joint pain
• muscle soreness after exercise
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach upset or pain