Crestor

Definition

Crestor (rosuvastatin) is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. It works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Crestor is primarily used to reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol.
2. Common side effects include headache, muscle pain, abdominal pain, weakness, and nausea.
3. It is important to monitor liver function tests periodically while taking Crestor due to potential hepatotoxicity.
4. Patients should avoid grapefruit juice as it can increase the risk of serious side effects.
5. Crestor is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease or persistent unexplained elevations of serum transaminases.

Review Questions

• What enzyme does Crestor inhibit to lower cholesterol levels?
• Name two common side effects associated with Crestor use.
• Why should liver function be monitored in patients taking Crestor?

Related terms

Statins: A class of drugs that lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase.

HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors: Medications that block the action of HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis.

PCSK9 Inhibitors: Drugs that inhibit proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and help lower LDL cholesterol levels.