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Rosuvastatin Calcium

Rosuvastatin Calcium

Rosuvastatin Calcium is a lipid-lowering medication belonging to the statin class of drugs. It works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a crucial role in cholesterol synthesis in the liver. By reducing cholesterol levels, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, rosuvastatin helps prevent cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. It is available under the brand name Crestor, among others.

Indications

Rosuvastatin Calcium is primarily indicated for the treatment of: -Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol) -Mixed dyslipidemia -Hypertriglyceridemia (high triglycerides) -Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in patients at high risk -Secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with established cardiovascular disease


Dosage

The dosage of Rosuvastatin Calcium varies based on the condition being treated and patient response: -Starting dose: Typically 10-20 mg once daily. -Severe hypercholesterolemia: Up to 40 mg once daily, if necessary. -Maintenance dose: 5-40 mg once daily. -The medication should be taken at the same time each day, with or without food.


Contra-Indications

Rosuvastatin Calcium is contraindicated in patients with: -Known hypersensitivity to rosuvastatin or any component of the formulation -Active liver disease, including unexplained persistent elevations of hepatic transaminase levels -Severe renal impairment -Myopathy or predisposing factors for myopathy/rhabdomyolysis -Pregnancy and lactation


Special Precautions

-Liver Function: Regular monitoring of liver enzymes is recommended due to potential hepatic effects. -Renal Function: Use caution in patients with moderate renal impairment. -Myopathy/Rhabdomyolysis: Patients should be informed about the risk of muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, and the need to report such symptoms immediately. -Diabetes: Statins can increase blood glucose levels; monitoring is advised for diabetic patients. -Alcohol Use: Excessive alcohol intake should be avoided due to the increased risk of liver damage.


Side Effects

Common side-effects of Rosuvastatin Calcium include: -Headache -Myalgia (muscle pain) -Abdominal pain -Nausea -Weakness -Serious side-effects may include: -Myopathy and rhabdomyolysis -Liver enzyme abnormalities -Proteinuria and hematuria -Hypersensitivity reactions including rash, pruritus, and urticaria


Drug Interactions

Rosuvastatin Calcium can interact with several medications, including: -Cyclosporine: Increases rosuvastatin plasma levels. -Warfarin: Enhances the anticoagulant effect. -Gemfibrozil and other fibrates: Increases the risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis. -Antacids: Reduce the absorption of rosuvastatin. -Protease inhibitors: May increase rosuvastatin exposure.


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