Crestor (Rosuvastatin)

Crestor (Rosuvastatin)

Crestor (Rosuvastatin)

What is Crestor?

Crestor is an effective high cholesterol medication that is clinically proven to help to lower cholesterol. It is the branded version of the generic medication Rosuvastatin. This medication is part of a group of medicines known as statins, which work to reduce cholesterol by blocking a particular enzyme. The active ingredient in Crestor, called rosuvastatin, reduces the level of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol (known as "bad" cholesterol) in the blood. It also is able to increase levels of HDL cholesterol (known as "good" cholesterol). Crestor is prescribed to patients with high cholesterol who are at risk of heart attack and stroke.

Does Crestor have any benefits?

The most obvious benefit of this medication is its ability to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, meaning you will be less at risk of serious cardiovascular problems that are caused by high cholesterol. Crestor can be taken by sufferers of high cholesterol who have developed the condition as a result of genetic, diet or lifestyle factors. The risk of atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease and angina is in turn reduced.

How does this medication work?

The active ingredient, rosuvastatin calcium, works to reduce levels of cholesterol that are produced by the liver. You may have heard of cholesterol being divided into two types: "bad" (low density lipoprotein or LDL cholesterol) and "good" (high density lipoprotein or HDL cholesterol). LDL is "bad" because it can clog up and narrow the arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems like heart attacks, which HDL protects against this. Crestor works by blocking the work of an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for producing the LDL cholesterol.

How to take Crestor

Crestor tablets should be swallowed whole but can be taken with or without food, depending on your preference. You should take one tablet each day. People who are taking this medication for the first time will be prescribed either the 5mg or 10mg dose, depending on factors such as their cholesterol level and sensitivity to side effects. Only a doctor will be able to determine whether a higher dosage is required. It is advisable to have your cholesterol checked regularly while taking this medication.

Should I be worried about side effects?

As with any prescription medication, side effects are a possibility with this medication. Mild side effects may include headache, joint pain, nausea, constipation, insomnia and indigestion. More serious side effects, which are more rare, include fever, jaundice, changes to normal urination, muscle pain and loss of appetite. You should speak to your doctor if you experience any of these effects. Though it is very rare, some people may experience an allergic reaction, which will require urgent medical care.

It is very important to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking any kind of statin, as consuming this fruit while taking statins can cause potentially serious side effects.