Key facts about Crestor
What is Crestor?
Crestor is the brand name for rosuvastatin and is available as an oral tablet.
What dosages is Crestor available in?
Crestor is available as a 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg oral tablet.
What is Crestor used for?
Crestor is a statin used for treatment of high “bad” cholesterol and triglyceride levels in certain people.
How does Crestor work?
Crestor is a statin. The main way it works is by blocking the enzyme (protein) in your liver that makes cholesterol. As a result, Crestor lowers your “bad” cholesterol (called low-density lipoprotein, or LDL). Crestor can also raise your “good” cholesterol (called high-density lipoprotein, or HDL) and lower your triglyceride levels.
How do I take Crestor?
Crestor is typically taken by mouth once daily. The typical maintenance dose ranges from 5 mg to 40 mg once daily.
Is it safe for me to take Crestor?
Crestor is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have acute liver failure or decompensated cirrhosis or a
hypersensitivity to rosuvastatin or any excipients in Crestor.
Crestor Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Crestor include:
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
- Headache
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Dizziness
- Rash, itchy skin, hives
- Higher blood sugar
Crestor Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Crestor. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Severe muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis): Dark brown urine, severe muscle weakness or pain, fever, tiredness
- Worsening liver problems or liver failure: swelling of your stomach, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, confusion, dark or brown urine
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Crestor
The following medications may interact with Crestor:
- Aluminum and magnesium hydroxide combination antacids – Administer Crestor at least 2 hours after the antacid
- Warfari – Obtain INR prior to starting Crestor. Monitor INR frequently until stable upon initiation, dose titration or discontinuation
Who makes Crestor?
AstraZeneca
Is Crestor safe in pregnancy?
Crestor may cause harm to your unborn baby. You should discontinue this medication immediately if you become pregnant.
