Fluvastatin is used to:

• Lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol
• Lower levels of triglyceride
• Increase HDL (good) cholesterol
• Slow the build-up of plaque in blood vessels
• Lower risk of heart complications in people with coronary disease

Fluvastatin may be used for purposes not mentioned on this webpage.

Fluvastatin is:

• A "HMG CoA reductase inhibitor," part of the "statins" family
• Used by adults and children older than 10 years old

• Follow all directions on the label and your doctor's instructions.
• Fluvostatin is usually taken once or twice a day with or without food
• Swallow the pill whole; don't break/chew/crush/open the tablet
• An extended-release tablet can be taken anytime during the day
• A tablet should be taken the same time(s) each day
• Drink a full glass of water along with this medication
• You may require regular blood tests
• Keep using this medication as directed even if you feel well otherwise; cholesterol levels may take 4 weeks to improve, and high cholesterol often does not have symptoms
• Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember
• If you are more than 12 hours late for a dose, skip the missed dose

Important: Do not use fluvastatin if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, stop using this drug and tell your doctor immediately.

Do not take fluvastatin if you:

• Are allergic
• Have active liver disease
• Are pregnant or breast-feeding
• Are under 10 years old

Inform your doctor if you have experienced:

• Liver disease
• Muscle pain or weakness
• Kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Thyroid problems
• Drink more than 2 alcoholic beverages a day

When taking fluvastatin, avoid:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Foods high in fat or cholesterol

Always inform your doctor of all your medical conditions, allergies, and medications, especially:

• Gemfibrozil, fenofibric acid, fenofibrate
• Medications that include niacin
• Other cholesterol medicines
• Antibiotics
• Antifungal medication
• Diabetes medication
• Heart medication
• Seizure medication
• Stomach ulcer or stomach acid medication
• Herbs, supplements, vitamins, and other over-the-counter medications

Fluvastatin may not be effective on its own. Follow your doctor's diet and exercise plan.

Please note that this webpage does not list every possible precaution. Consult with your physician for more information.

Common side effects include:

• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Indigestion

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Little/no urination, painful/difficult urination, pain/swelling in ankles or feet, shortness of breath, and other signs of a kidney problem
• Upper stomach pain, appetitie loss, fatigue, dark urine, stools the color of clay, yellowing of skin and eyes, and other signs of a liver problem
• Hives, difficulty breathing, swelling, and other signs of an allergic reaction

Always inform your doctor of all known medical conditions, allergies, and medications before taking this drug.

Please note that this webpage does not list every possible precaution. Consult with your physician for more information.