Lovastatin Extended-Release

Lovastatin extended-release helps lower cholesterol and triglycerides by blocking the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which controls the body's rate of cholesterol production. In previous research studies, people taking lovastatin extended-release 20 mg once a day were able to lower their LDL cholesterol ("bad cholesterol") by 30 percent and their total cholesterol by 21 percent -- and increase their HDL cholesterol ("good cholesterol") by 12 percent. Larger doses had an even greater effect on cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Common side effects include muscle pain, joint pain, and inflammation of the sinuses (sinusitis).

 

An Overview of Lovastatin Extended-Release

Lovastatin extended-release (Altoprev®) 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.
 

Who Makes Lovastatin Extended-Release?

Lovastatin extended-release is manufactured by Andrx Pharmaceuticals and distributed by First Horizon Pharmaceutical Corporation.
 

What Is Lovastatin Extended-Release Used For?

Lovastatin extended-release has been licensed for several uses including:
 

How Does Lovastatin Extended-Release Work?

Lovastatin extended-release is part of a class of drugs called statins.
 It 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. Lovastatin extended-release also:
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;