Lovastatin
Also known as: Mevinolin
Lovastatin is antihyperlipidic agent. Lovastatin is structural analog of HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme). Lovastatin is inactive tricyclic lactone prodrug and hydrolyzed in the gastrointestinal tract to the active ß hydroxy derivative. It lowers high blood cholesterol levels and prevents coronary atherosclerosis and reduces the risk of heart attack as high levels of cholesterol causes the blockadge of arteries of heart. Lovastatin is not available in combination preparations. Lovastatin is administered orally.
Primary Characteristics
Lovastatin is also known as Mevinolin.
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Tricyclic Lactone.
It belongs to HMGCoA reductase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antilipemic Agent pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 404.5 · Solubility in Water: insoluble · Solubility in Alcohol: sparingly soluble · Non-proprietary name: Lovastatin.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Lovastatin has an oral bioavailability is 91% (±9%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 83% (±7%).
Distribution: Lovastatin has a plasma protein binding is >95%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 1.1-1.7 hr, renal excretion is 10%.
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Indications
Lovastatin is primarily indicated in conditions like Dysbetalipoproteinemia, Hypercholesterolaemia, Hypertriglyceridaemia, Secondary hyperlipidemias.
Lovastatin is also indicated for secondary conditions like Heart disease.
Contraindications
Lovastatin is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Lovastatin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 15 mg | 15 mg | Every 24h | PO | In the evening with food. |
| 80 mg | 80 mg | Every 24h | PO | Increased if necessary in divided doses. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not recommended for this age group | |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not recommended in this age group | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Lovastatin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hepatitis , Pancreatitis , Lenticular abnormalities .
Lovastatin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Renal failure. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Lovastatin are Rhabdomyolysis .
Lovastatin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal pain, Blurred vision, Constipation , Diarrhea, Dizziness, Dysgeusia, Elevation of CPK , Insomnia, Muscle pain, Muscle tenderness, Myalgia, Nausea, Rhabdomyolysis, Skin RashX, Weakness.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Lovastatin may interfere in the diagnosis of Liver Function Test (LFT) .
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.12.6 — Lipid-regulating drugs /Anti-atheromas