Lovastatin 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. It is sold under the brand name
Mevacor® but is also available as a generic called Lovastatin tablets ("lovastatin"). There are also
lovastatin extended-release tablets that are available under the brand name
Altoprev®.
Lovastatin is manufactured by Mylan Pharmaceuticals and PAR Pharmaceuticals.
What Is Lovastatin Used For?
Lovastatin has been licensed for several uses, including:
Lovastatin has also been approved for use in children ages 10 to 17 for the treatment of high cholesterol.
How Does Lovastatin Work?
Lovastatin is part of a class of drugs called statins.
Lovastatin 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 also: