Uses

Fluvastatin is indicated as an adjunct to diet to reduce LDL cholesterol in adults and pediatric patients (10 years and older) with primary hyperlipidemia and heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. It is also used to reduce the risk of coronary revascularization procedures and slow progression of coronary atherosclerosis in adults with clinically evident coronary heart disease.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in acute liver failure or decompensated cirrhosis, and in patients with known hypersensitivity to fluvastatin or any excipients. Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Side effects

Serious adverse effects include myopathy, rhabdomyolysis, immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy, and hepatic dysfunction. Common side effects include headache, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, and increases in liver enzymes. Elevated fasting blood glucose and HbA1c have been reported.

Warnings

Monitor liver function tests before initiating therapy and as clinically indicated. Discontinue if markedly elevated creatine kinase or myopathy is diagnosed. Risk of myopathy is increased with age above 65, renal impairment, and certain drug interactions. Avoid in pregnancy.

How it works

Fluvastatin is a competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis. By blocking mevalonate production, it reduces hepatic cholesterol synthesis and upregulates LDL receptors, increasing clearance of LDL-C from the bloodstream.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15–30°C), protected from light and moisture.