Rosuvastatin

What is it?

Composition

The main active ingredient in the drug is Rosuvastatin calcium. It is the active component responsible for lowering cholesterol levels in the blood. In addition to the main substance, the composition also includes auxiliary components that help ensure the stability, effectiveness and ease of use of the drug. These components may vary depending on the manufacturer and dosage form, but usually include:

• Microcrystalline cellulose
• Lactose monohydrate
• Crospovidone
• Magnesium stearate
• Titanium dioxide
• Hypromellose

These auxiliary substances play various roles, such as ensuring the correct release of the active substance in the body, maintaining the shape of the tablet and improving its taste.

How to use?

Rosuvastatin is usually taken once a day, preferably at the same time each day to maintain stable levels of the drug in the blood. The drug can be taken with or without food, making it convenient for daily use. It is important to follow your doctors instructions regarding dosage and not to change it on your own, as this may affect the effectiveness of the treatment or cause side effects.

A typical regimen includes the following steps:

1. Take the tablet whole with plenty of water.
2. Do not chew or break the tablet, as this may change the rate at which the active substance is released.
3. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual schedule. Do not double the dose.

Always monitor your bodys response to treatment and report any side effects or changes in your well-being to your doctor.

How does it work?

Rosuvastatin works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is a key part of cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This enzyme is involved in the early stage of cholesterol production, and blocking it leads to a decrease in the total cholesterol level in the blood. In particular, Rosuvastatin effectively reduces the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called bad cholesterol, which is a major risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.

In addition to lowering LDL, Rosuvastatin can also increase the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), known as good cholesterol. This helps remove cholesterol from the arteries and reduces the risk of plaque formation. As a result of regular use of Rosuvastatin, the risk of heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular complications is reduced.

Indications

Rosuvastatin is prescribed to treat various conditions associated with high cholesterol and the risk of cardiovascular disease. The main indications for the drug include:

• Primary hypercholesterolemia is a condition characterized by elevated blood cholesterol levels, especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
• Mixed dyslipidemia is a lipid metabolism disorder in which levels of several types of fats are elevated, including LDL and triglycerides.
• Prevention of cardiovascular disease is to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications in high-risk patients, including those with diabetes or hypertension.
• Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia is a rare genetic disorder in which cholesterol levels are significantly higher than normal from birth.

Rosuvastatin is often part of a combination therapy that includes dietary changes, physical activity, and other methods to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Contraindications

Despite the effectiveness of Rosuvastatin, there are certain conditions and factors that contraindicate its use. Before starting therapy, it is important to familiarize yourself with these contraindications to avoid potential health risks. The main contraindications include:

• Hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to Rosuvastatin or other components of the drug.
• Liver diseases, such as active hepatitis or persistently elevated liver enzymes.
• Severe renal failure, especially in patients taking high doses of Rosuvastatin.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, since Rosuvastatin can negatively affect the development of the fetus and child.
• Muscle diseases, including myopathy and other conditions associated with the risk of rhabdomyolysis.

Rosuvastatin should also be used with caution in elderly patients and in people taking other drugs that may interact with Rosuvastatin, increasing the risk of side effects.

Side effects

Like any other medicine, Rosuvastatin can cause side effects, although most patients tolerate it well. It is important to be aware of possible reactions to the drug so that you can contact your doctor promptly if necessary. The most common side effects include:

• Headaches and dizziness.
• Muscle pain or weakness (myalgia).
• Nausea, abdominal pain, or indigestion.
• Increased levels of liver enzymes in the blood, which may indicate possible liver problems.
• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or hives.

Less common but more serious side effects include rhabdomyolysis, a breakdown of muscle tissue that can lead to kidney failure. If you experience severe muscle pain, dark urine, or other alarming symptoms, you should stop taking the drug immediately and seek medical attention.