Rosuvastatin: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo
Rosuvastatin
Rx
Generic NameRosuvastatin
Therapeutic ClassHMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin)
Common Strength5, 10, 20, 40 mg tablets
PregnancyContraindicated
Indications ▼
Hypercholesterolemia: Treatment of high LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol in adults.
Mixed Dyslipidemia: Reduces elevated LDL, total cholesterol, ApoB, and triglycerides; increases HDL.
Cardiovascular Risk Reduction: Prevention of myocardial infarction, stroke, and other cardiovascular events in high-risk patients.
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol synthesis, decreasing hepatic cholesterol and upregulating LDL receptors.
Pharmacokinetics: Oral absorption ~20%; peak plasma 3–5 hours; 90% protein bound; metabolized minimally by CYP2C9; half-life ~19 hours; excreted mainly in feces.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 10–20 mg orally once daily | 40 mg |
| Elderly | Start with 5–10 mg orally once daily; adjust based on response | 40 mg |
| Patients with Severe Renal Impairment | Start with 5 mg orally once daily; adjust carefully | 20 mg |
Note: Take at the same time each day, with or without food. Monitor liver function and CK levels periodically. Adjust dose based on efficacy and tolerance.
Side Effects ▼
Headache, dizziness
Myalgia, arthralgia
Abdominal pain, nausea
Rare: myopathy, rhabdomyolysis, elevated liver enzymes
Contraindications ▼
Pregnancy and lactation
Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevated transaminases
Hypersensitivity to rosuvastatin
Drug Interaction ▼
CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole) may increase levels
Fibrates: increased risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis
Antacids: may decrease absorption if taken simultaneously
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Contraindicated in pregnancy
Contraindicated during breastfeeding
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Clinical Role: Effective statin for LDL reduction and cardiovascular risk management.
Advantage: Potent LDL-lowering, once-daily dosing, long half-life.
Limitation: Risk of myopathy, liver enzyme elevation; careful monitoring required.
Monitoring: Lipid profile, liver function tests, CK levels in high-risk patients.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Take at the same time each day, with or without food
Report unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
Avoid excessive alcohol
Follow up for periodic blood tests (liver, CK, lipid profile)
Storage & Handling ▼
Store at room temperature below 30°C
Protect from moisture and light
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.