Crestor drug information

Posted by admin on April 13, 2008

Description

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.

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.

Recommendations

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. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat, moisture, and light.

This medicine should be taken regularly to get the most benefit from it. Taking this medicine at the same time each day will help you remember.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO CONTINUE TAKING THIS MEDICINE even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol or triglycerides do not feel sick. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do NOT take 2 doses at once.

Precautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE if you have had an allergic reaction to it, to other similar medicines, or are allergic to any ingredient in this product.

IT MAY TAKE 2 to 4 WEEKS before the full benefit of this medicine is seen. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or take this medicine for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor.

DO NOT STOP USING THIS MEDICINE without first checking with your doctor. Laboratory and/or medical tests, including liver function tests, kidney function tests, and blood cholesterol levels, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects.

KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are taking this medicine. BEFORE YOU HAVE ANY MEDICAL OR DENTAL TREATMENTS, EMERGENCY CARE, OR SURGERY, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using this medicine.

Limit alcoholic beverages. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

FOR WOMEN: If you are able to become pregnant, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the use of effective birth control while taking this medicine. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE if you are pregnant. IF YOU SUSPECT THAT YOU COULD BE PREGNANT, contact your doctor immediately. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.