Mevacor (Lovastatin)

Do not take this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. Laboratory and/or medical tests, including liver function tests and blood cholesterol levels, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are using this medicine. Before having any kind of surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine. Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while you are taking this medicine may increase the amount of this medicine in your blood, which may increase your risk for serious side effects. Talk with your doctor before including grapefruit or grapefruit juice in your diet while you are taking this medicine. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. For women: do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you suspect that you could be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. It is recommended that women of childbearing age use effective birth control measures while taking this medicine since lovastatin may cause fetal harm. It is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

Side effects are rare. Minor side effects include constipation, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, headache, insomnia. Major side effects include abdominal pain or cramps, blurred vision, dizziness, itching, muscle pain or cramps, rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes.

For best results, this medicine should be used along with exercise, a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet, and a weight loss program if you are overweight. Follow the dietary plan provided by your doctor. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.