Cholesterol

What is Crestor?

Crestor is an HMG CoA reductase inhibitor. Crestor blocks the production of cholesterol (a type of fat) in the body.

Crestor is used to reduce the amounts of LDL (bad) cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides (another type of fat), and apolipoprotein B (a protein needed to make cholesterol) in the blood. Crestor also increases the level of HDL (good) cholesterol in the blood. These actions are important in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis (fatty deposits in the arteries), which can lead to heart attack, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.

Crestor may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of Crestor?

Rare cases of muscle problems and liver problems have been associated with the use of Crestor and other similar medicines. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by a fever or flulike symptoms or yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, unexplained fatigue, dark colored urine or pale colored stools. These may be early symptoms of muscle or liver problems.

If you experience a rare but serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives) stop taking Crestor and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Crestor and talk to your doctor if you experience
- headache;
- diarrhea or constipation; or
- nausea or upset stomach.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Important safety information about CRESTOR

CRESTOR is prescribed along with diet for lowering high cholesterol and has not been determined to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes. CRESTOR is not right for everyone, including women who are nursing, pregnant, or may become pregnant, or anyone with liver problems. Your doctor will do blood tests before and during treatment with CRESTOR to monitor your liver function. Unexplained muscle pain and weakness could be a sign of a rare but serious side effect and should be reported to your doctor right away. The 40-mg dose of CRESTOR is only for patients who do not reach goal on 20 mg. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any medications. Side effects occur infrequently and include muscle aches, constipation, weakness, abdominal pain, and nausea. They are usually mild and tend to go away.

Please see full Prescribing Information for CRESTOR.

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