Fluvastatin

Generic Details

Generic Name

Fluvastatin

Other Names

  • Lescol

Drug Class

  • HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin)

Chemical Formula

C24H26FNO4

Molecular Weight

411.46 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, thus reducing cholesterol synthesis in the liver

Indications

  • Hypercholesterolemia
  • Dyslipidemia

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet

Typical Dosage

  • 20-80 mg once daily

Pediatric Dosage

  • Not established

Geriatric Dosage

  • Use with caution and start at the lower end of the dosing range

Side Effects

  • Headache
  • Muscle pain
  • Weakness
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea
  • Constipation

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to statins
  • Active liver disease
  • Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category

  • Category X - contraindicated

Lactation Safety

  • Safety unknown; use with caution

Drug Interactions

  • Avoid concurrent use of gemfibrozil
  • Monitor for increased risk of myopathy with concomitant use of some drugs like cyclosporine

Overdose Symptoms

  • Muscle pain
  • Increased risk of liver damage

Antidote for Overdose

  • No specific antidote; supportive care

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
  • Distribution: Highly protein-bound
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Primarily in the feces

Precautions

  • Monitor liver function tests periodically
  • Report any unexplained muscle pain or weakness

Warnings

  • Risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis
  • Increased liver enzymes

Others

  • It is advisable to follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen to optimize cholesterol-lowering effects.