Crestor (rosuvastatin calcium) is a prescription medication classified as a statin, specifically designed to manage elevated cholesterol levels and associated cardiovascular risks. It functions by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in the hepatic synthesis of cholesterol, thereby effectively reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglycerides while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Clinical evidence supports its role in significantly lowering the incidence of major cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, in appropriately selected patient populations. Its well-established efficacy and safety profile make it a cornerstone in modern lipid-management protocols.

Features

• Active ingredient: Rosuvastatin calcium
• Available in 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg tablet strengths
• Once-daily oral administration
• FDA-approved for primary hyperlipidemia, mixed dyslipidemia, and primary prevention of cardiovascular disease
• Demonstrated LDL-C reduction of up to 52–63% at maximum dosages
• Manufactured under stringent quality control standards

Benefits

• Significantly reduces LDL cholesterol levels, a primary modifiable risk factor for atherosclerosis
• Lowers triglyceride levels and increases HDL cholesterol, supporting a healthier lipid profile
• Reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and arterial revascularization procedures
• Supports long-term cardiovascular health when combined with lifestyle modifications
• Offers flexible dosing to accommodate individual patient response and tolerability
• Backed by extensive clinical trial data involving over 70,000 participants worldwide

Common use

Crestor is commonly prescribed for adults with primary hyperlipidemia or mixed dyslipidemia to reduce elevated total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, and triglycerides. It is also indicated to slow the progression of atherosclerosis and as an adjunct to diet and exercise to reduce the risk of stroke, myocardial infarction, and arterial revascularization in individuals without clinically evident coronary heart disease but with increased risk factors such as hypertension, low HDL, or family history. It may be used in pediatric patients aged 8–17 with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dose for most patients is 10 mg or 20 mg taken orally once daily, with or without food. Dosage should be individualized based on LDL-C levels, goal of therapy, and patient response. The 40 mg dose is reserved for patients who do not achieve goal LDL-C with 20 mg and should be used only after careful assessment of benefits and risks. For Asian patients or those with predisposing factors for myopathy, a 5 mg starting dose is recommended. Liver function tests should be performed before initiation and periodically thereafter. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or split.

Precautions

Patients should be advised to report unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness promptly, particularly if accompanied by fever or malaise. Liver enzyme levels should be monitored before starting therapy and as clinically indicated thereafter. Use with caution in patients with a history of liver disease or heavy alcohol consumption. Blood glucose levels should be monitored, as statins may increase HbA1c and fasting serum glucose. Caution is advised in patients with renal impairment, especially those taking concomitant medications that may affect renal function. Patients should follow a standardized cholesterol-lowering diet during treatment.

Contraindications

Crestor is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases. It is also contraindicated in pregnancy, during breastfeeding, and in women of childbearing potential not using adequate contraception. Concomitant use with cyclosporine is prohibited. Hypersensitivity to any component of this medication, including rosuvastatin calcium, is an absolute contraindication.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions (≥2%) include headache, myalgia, abdominal pain, nausea, and constipation. Less frequently, patients may experience dizziness, insomnia, or rash. Serious side effects include myopathy and rhabdomyolysis with renal dysfunction, hepatotoxicity, and increased HbA1c and fasting serum glucose levels. Rare cases of immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy, cognitive impairment, and hemorrhagic stroke have been reported. Patients should seek immediate medical attention for symptoms of muscle breakdown, such as dark urine or unusual fatigue.

Drug interaction

Crestor may interact with cyclosporine, gemfibrozil, niacin, antifungal agents (e.g., itraconazole), HIV protease inhibitors, and certain immunosuppressants, increasing the risk of myopathy. Warfarin monitoring is recommended, as rosuvastatin may enhance its anticoagulant effect. Concomitant use with other lipid-lowering agents requires careful risk-benefit assessment. Antacids containing aluminum and magnesium hydroxide may decrease rosuvastatin absorption; administration should be separated by at least 2 hours.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling the dose to make up for a missed one is not recommended.

Overdose

There is no specific antidote for rosuvastatin overdose. Supportive measures should be instituted, and liver function and CK levels monitored. Hemodialysis is unlikely to be beneficial due to high protein binding. Symptomatic treatment should be provided based on clinical presentation.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F), in a tightly closed container, away from light, moisture, and heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication regimen. Individual patient needs and responses may vary.

Reviews

Clinical studies and post-marketing surveillance indicate high patient satisfaction with Crestor, particularly regarding its potent LDL-lowering effects and once-daily convenience. Some users report mild gastrointestinal discomfort or muscle aches, which often resolve with dosage adjustment. Healthcare professionals frequently note its reliability in achieving lipid targets in diverse patient populations, including those with diabetes or metabolic syndrome. Long-term users appreciate the cardiovascular risk reduction benefits, though regular monitoring is emphasized to mitigate potential adverse effects.