Description
Generic Name: pitavastatin
Drug Class: HMG CoA reductase inhibitor
Livalo Uses
Livalo is an oral prescription drug prescribed to patients with primary hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidemia, together with proper diet and exercise. It reduces the elevated levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and apolipoprotein B while increasing the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Livalo Dosage
This is available in Livalo 2 mg, Livalo 4 mg, and 1 mg tablets.
Livalo Mechanism of Action
This drug inhibits the HMG CoA reductase, which is the enzyme responsible for cholesterol biosynthesis leading to the inhibition of cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This results in the expression of LDL receptors followed by the acceleration of the uptake of low-density lipoprotein from blood to the liver.
How to Take Livalo
Before taking Livalo, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not take any medication unless you have understood the uses and directions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further medical advice or additional details.
This tablet is only meant to be taken by mouth. This is usually prescribed once a day and preferably at the same time each day. You may take it with or without a meal. After swallowing the tablet, drink plenty of water.
Make a dosing schedule. If you are prescribed other cholesterol drugs, such as colestipol or cholestyramine, take them 1 hour prior or 4 hours after taking this medication. Do not increase or decrease your doses. You should also not take this oral drug more frequently than advised.
This cholesterol medication is only an adjunct to proper diet and regular exercise. It may not work as well if lifestyle changes are not applied. Always eat a healthy balanced meal and do exercise regularly.
Livalo Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Headache
-Diarrhea
-Constipation
-Joint pain
-Muscle pain
Severe Side Effects:
-High blood sugar
-Rhabdomyolysis
-Muscle weakness
-Unusual tiredness
-Changes in urine output
-Severe abdominal pain
-Persistent vomiting
-Dark urine
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Livalo.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and talk to your doctor or healthcare professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take Livalo if you have a known allergy to pitavastatin or any inactive ingredients the tablet may contain. Always be watchful for any signs of serious allergic reactions, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. If this occurs, stop taking this oral medication and seek emergency medical help immediately.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of alcohol abuse, kidney disease, and liver disease. Also, due to possible drug interactions, you should discuss all the prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Avoid or restrict your alcohol consumption while taking this oral medication. Drinking alcohol can further increase the risk of liver problems, especially if combined with pitavastatin.
Pregnant moms must avoid this statin because it is known to cause harm to unborn babies. For breastfeeding moms, take this oral drug only if extremely necessary. It is essential to discuss all the possible risks with a healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Livalo used for?
This oral drug is used to manage bad cholesterol levels along with proper diet and exercise. At the same time, it also helps increase good cholesterol levels.
Is Livalo a strong statin?
According to clinical trials, this oral medication is among the most potent statins available. Within a month, patients are expected to achieve the full benefits of this drug.
Should I take Livalo at night?
There is no best time to take this cholesterol medication. You may take it any time of the day, provided that you follow a dosing schedule.
Are among the Livalo side effects weight gain?
Weight gain is not directly linked to this medication. It may be a symptom of an underlying kidney problem which is among the severe adverse reactions of this drug.
Is Lipitor the same as Livalo?
Livalo vs Lipitor – These medications are both HMG CoA reductase Inhibitors. However, they vary in their active ingredients. Livalo contains pitavastatin while Lipitor has atorvastatin.
Can I buy Livalo in Canada?
You may purchase Livalo in Canada at a lower price. Just present a valid prescription from your physician upon purchase.
How much does Livalo cost?
You may see the list of prices on this page by clicking here. Get the best deals when you order your prescription drugs from PharmaPassport.