Livalo

Common Use

Livalo is a cholesterol-lowering medication used to treat high levels of LDL ("bad" cholesterol) and triglycerides, and to raise HDL ("good" cholesterol). Pitavastatin, a statin, works by inhibiting an enzyme involved in cholesterol production in the liver.

Dosage and Directions

Take Livalo orally once daily, with or without food, preferably at the same time each day. Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions, and maintain a cholesterol-lowering diet while on treatment.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, kidney problems, or muscle disorders. Avoid excessive alcohol intake and inform your provider if you experience unexplained muscle pain or weakness.

Contraindications

Do not use Livalo if you have active liver disease or are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also contraindicated with certain medications like cyclosporine.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include muscle pain, back pain, constipation, and headache. Rare but serious side effects may involve liver damage or rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown).

Drug Interaction

Pitavastatin can interact with drugs such as erythromycin, fibrates, and protease inhibitors. Tell your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s near the time of your next dose, skip the missed one—do not take extra doses.

Overdose

An overdose may cause severe muscle pain, liver issues, or weakness. Contact a healthcare provider or poison control immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Storage

Store Livalo at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep the medication in its original container and out of reach of children.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.