Lescol XL

Lescol XL is a drug that is used to treat conditions such as high cholesterol and high triglycerides. The prescription medication is the extended-release version of Lescol immediate-release. Lescol XL works by blocking a particular enzyme that controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body. This results in the liver producing less cholesterol. Lescol XL comes in tablet form and should be taken with the evening meal or right before bedtime.

 

What Is Lescol XL?

Lescol® XL (fluvastatin extended-release) is a prescription medication used for treating a number of conditions related to heart disease, including high cholesterol and high triglycerides. It is part of a class of drugs called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, which are more popularly known as statins.
 
Lescol XL is the extended-release version of Lescol immediate-release.
 

Who Makes Lescol XL?

Lescol XL is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
 

What Is Lescol XL Used for?

Lescol XL has been licensed for several uses, including:
 

 

For those with heart disease, Lescol XL can be used to:

 

 

  • Decrease the rate of cholesterol buildup on the arteries (atherosclerosis).

 

Lescol XL has also been approved for use in children ages 10 to 16 for the treatment of high cholesterol.
 

How Does Lescol XL Work?

Lescol XL is part of a class of drugs called statins.
 Lescol XL works by blocking a particular enzyme, HMG-CoA reductase, that controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body. This causes the liver to make less cholesterol. Lescol XL also:
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;