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Mevacor
Pronounced: MEV-uh-core
Generic name: Lovastatin
Mevacor is used, along with diet, to lower cholesterol levels in people with primary hypercholesterolemia (too much cholesterol in the bloodstream). High cholesterol levels lead to the build-up of artery-clogging plaque, which can be especially dangerous when it collects in the vessels serving the muscles of the heart. Mevacor is prescribed to prevent this problem--called coronary heart disease--or to slow its advance if the arteries are already clogging up.
ADULTS
The recommended starting dose is 20 milligrams once a day, taken with the evening meal. The maximum recommended dose is 80 milligrams per day, taken as a single dose or divided into smaller doses, as determined by your doctor. Adjustments to any dose, as determined by your doctor, should be made at intervals of 4 weeks or more.
If you are taking Lopid, Atromid-S, Tricor or nicotinic acid in combination with Mevacor, your dose of Mevacor should not exceed 20 milligrams per day.
Cholesterol levels should be monitored periodically by your doctor, who may decide to reduce the dose if your cholesterol level falls below the targeted range.
If you have reduced kidney function, your doctor will be cautious about increasing your dosage.
*Grapefruit juice or grapefruits should not be consumed while on this medication as increased side effects may result.
CHILDREN
The safety and effectiveness of this drug have not been established in children. |
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