Why is this medication prescribed?

Altoprev (generic name Lovastatin) is prescribed primarily to help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is used in the treatment of:

• High cholesterol: Lovastatin helps reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and total cholesterol in the blood, which can help prevent heart disease.
• Preventing heart disease: It is also used to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues in individuals with risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines for its use:

• Dosage: Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage. The typical starting dose is often 20 mg to 40 mg once daily, usually taken in the evening. The dose can be adjusted based on your response and any side effects.
• Administration: Take the medication by mouth, usually once daily with the evening meal. This timing helps align with the body’s natural cholesterol production cycle, which is higher at night.
• Avoid Certain Foods: While on Lovastatin, you may need to limit intake of foods high in saturated fats and cholesterol to help enhance the medication’s effectiveness.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, as Lovastatin can interact with certain drugs. You should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can increase the risk of side effects.
• Regular Check-Ups: Regular blood tests will likely be required to monitor cholesterol levels and check for any potential side effects, such as liver issues or muscle problems.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask them if you have any questions about your treatment.

Other uses for this medicine

Other Uses for Altoprev (Lovastatin):

• Hyperlipidemia: Besides lowering LDL cholesterol, Lovastatin can help reduce triglycerides and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
• Prevention of Atherosclerosis: It is sometimes used to prevent the progression of atherosclerosis (the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries) in patients with existing heart disease.
• Post-Heart Attack: It may be prescribed after a heart attack to help prevent further heart-related complications.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Altoprev:

• Liver Function: Regular liver function tests are important as Lovastatin can affect liver enzymes. Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease or alcohol abuse.
• Muscle Pain or Weakness: Report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness to your healthcare provider immediately, as these can be signs of a serious side effect called rhabdomyolysis.
• Kidney Function: Caution is needed if you have kidney issues, as Lovastatin can affect kidney function. Your doctor may need to monitor your kidney function.
• Drug Interactions: Lovastatin interacts with many other medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all the drugs you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines, supplements, and herbal products.
• Grapefruit: Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can increase the risk of side effects by affecting how Lovastatin is metabolized.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Lovastatin is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus or infant. Use effective contraception and inform your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and report any unusual symptoms or side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Limit Saturated Fats and Cholesterol: To enhance the effectiveness of Lovastatin, reduce your intake of foods high in saturated fats and cholesterol, such as fatty meats, full-fat dairy products, and fried foods.
• Balanced Diet: Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support overall heart health.
• Alcohol Consumption: Limit alcohol intake, as excessive alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage and may interact with Lovastatin.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Consistency: Try to take your medication at the same time each day to help remember and maintain consistent levels in your body.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Altoprev (Lovastatin) can cause a range of side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Muscle pain or weakness (often mild and temporary)

Serious Side Effects:

• Muscle Problems: Severe muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (myopathy), which can progress to a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, leading to kidney damage.
• Liver Damage: Elevated liver enzymes, which can indicate liver damage. Symptoms might include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, and persistent nausea or vomiting.
• Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Kidney Issues: Symptoms such as dark urine, severe fatigue, or swelling in the extremities can indicate kidney problems.
• Memory Loss or Confusion: Some individuals might experience cognitive issues such as memory loss or confusion.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Upset stomach, abdominal pain, or indigestion.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can help determine the best course of action and decide whether you should continue the medication.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Altoprev (Lovastatin):

• Storage:
  • Store Altoprev at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Typically, this means keeping it in a dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep the medication in its original container to protect it from environmental factors and to ensure it remains identifiable.
• Disposal:
  • If you need to dispose of Altoprev, check if there are any local medication take-back programs or disposal sites in your area.
  • If no take-back programs are available, follow FDA guidelines or local regulations for disposing of medications. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so. You can also mix the medication with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds) and place it in a sealed bag before throwing it in the household trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Signs of Overdose: Symptoms might include severe muscle pain or weakness, dark urine, or signs of liver issues such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), nausea, or vomiting.
• Immediate Action: If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Information to Provide: Be ready to provide information about the amount of medication taken, the time of ingestion, and any symptoms you are experiencing.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Check-Ups: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are important for monitoring your cholesterol levels and checking for potential side effects.
• Medication Adherence: Take your medication exactly as prescribed. Do not adjust your dose or stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Lifestyle Changes: Alongside medication, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, can enhance the effectiveness of Lovastatin and improve overall cardiovascular health.
• Communication: Keep open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any new symptoms, other medications you are taking, or changes in your health status.

Always consult your healthcare provider for specific advice and follow their guidance to ensure safe and effective use of Altoprev.