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Rosuvastatin (roe-SOO-va-sta-tin) is used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride (fat-like substances) levels in the blood. Using Rosuvastatin may help prevent medical problems caused by such substances clogging the blood vessels. Rosuvastatin belongs to the group of medicines called 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors. It works by blocking an enzyme that is needed by the body to make cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol in the blood. Rosuvastatin is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form: Oral Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Rosuvastatin is used with diet changes (restriction of cholesterol and fat intake) to reduce the amount of cholesterol and certain fatty substances in your blood. Accumulation of cholesterol and fats along the walls of your arteries (a process known as atherosclerosis) decreases blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen supply to your heart, brain, and other parts of your body. Lowering your blood level of cholesterol and fats may help to prevent heart disease, angina (chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks. Rosuvastatin is in a class of medications called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins). It works by preventing the body from forming harmful cholesterol and increasing the amount of HDL ('good cholesterol') in your blood. Rosuvastatin comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. Take Rosuvastatin at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Rosuvastatin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of Rosuvastatin and gradually increase your dose. Rosuvastatin controls high cholesterol but does not cure it. It may take 4 weeks or longer before you feel the full benefit of Rosuvastatin. Continue to take Rosuvastatin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Rosuvastatin without talking to your doctor. Brand names: - Crestor - Rosuvastatin |