LOVASTATIN

It is absorbed from GIT. It undergoes extensive first pass metabolism in liver which is the primary site of action. It is highly bound to plasma protein. Absorption is reduced by approximately 30% when administered on an empty stomach ther than with food. Lovastatin is eliminted primarily through fecal route which is the 83% of orally administered dose, 10% of drug is eliminated by renal route.

Indications

As an adjunct to diet for the reduction of elevated total & LDL cholesterol in patients of primary hypercholesterolemia, for reduction of elevated LDL cholesterol levels in patients with combined hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia.

Dosage

10-80 mg/day in single or divided doses.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity, Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases, pregnancy & nursing.

Special Precautions

Pregnancy & Lactation.

Side Effects

Flatulence, diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, cramps, dyspepsia, heart burn, dysgeusia, myopathy, myalgia, rhabdomyolysis, blurred vision, headache, dizziness, rashes, impotene, insomnia.

Drug Interactions

Anticoagulants, coumarin-or indandione derivative, HMG-COA reductase inhibitors, cyclosporine erythromycin, Gemfibrozil, immunosuppresants or niacin.