Livalo (Pitavastatin)

Livalo Information:

Livalo (generic name: Pitavastatin) is a drug which is prescribed for the treatment and control of high cholesterol which can lead to heart disease. It is a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, or statin, and works by reducing the amount of fats (lipids) in the blood. It is also used to lower the risk of stroke. If a patient has high lipid content in their blood and this is not treated, the fats build up in the blood vessels and this can lead to the vessels becoming narrower. This in turn restricts blood flow and can cause heart disease, angina, heart attack or stroke. The drug is proven to lower bad cholesterol levels (LDLs) and triglycerides in the blood. Some of your cholesterol is carried as high density lipoprotein (HDL), which is mostly protein and a small amount of cholesterol. Most of your cholesterol is carried as low density lipoprotein (LDL), which is mostly cholesterol with a smaller amount of protein. Very low density lipoproteins (VLDLs) are another type of fat called triglyceride which is fat from your diet. A healthy person has plenty of HDL, and less LDL and VLDL. Higher levels of LDL and VLDL can cause fatty deposits in the blood vessels.

Livalo Side Effects:

Although not very common in Livalo, you may experience side effects which can include mild muscle pain, back pain, pain in the arms or legs, diarrhea, constipation and mild skin rash. More serious side effects may include unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, fever, unusual fatigue, dark urine, nausea, pain in the upper stomach, itching, loss of appetite, clay coloured stools and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). If you experience any side effects it is important that you contact a doctor immediately for safety.

Livalo Directions:

Livalo comes in tablet form, and you should take Livalo as directed by the doctor who prescribed it to you. Dosage and directions are also stated on the leaflet included in the pack. You must not take more than the stated daily dose. Do not crush, break or chew tablets as this may result in too much of the drug being released at once which may have undesirable effects. If you accidentally overdose you should seek medical attention immediately. Livalo should be stored in a cool, dry place.

Livalo Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients you must not take Livalo, and should inform your doctor. You must also inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing conditions such as liver or kidney disease, thyroid disorders or if you drink more than 2 alcoholic beverages daily. Consult your doctor before taking Livalo if you are taking any other medications as some medicines may interact with Livalo, including blood thinners, itraconazole, rifampin, HIV medications or any other statins. If you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding you must not take Livalo. Livalo can cause birth defects and can seriously harm an unborn child or cause miscarriage.