Lovastatin is a drug, belonging to the class of 'statins', used for lowering cholesterol in patients having hypercholesterolemia. It also helps to prevent cardiovascular disease. The drug 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 somach rather than with food. Lovastatin is eliminated primarily through fecal route which is 83% of orally administered dose. 10% of the drug is eliminated by renal route.

Working
The drug works by blocking the body's ability to make cholesterol. It may help reducing or lowering blood cholesterol in patients who are at risk of getting heart disease or a stroke.

<Dosage
10 to 80 mg per day in single or divided doses

Contra- Indications: Hypersensitivity, active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases, pregnancy and nursing.

Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in different ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are often associated with the drug:

• Flatulence
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Abdominal Pain
• Cramps
• Dyspepsia

Brands