Pitavastatin calcium

Pitavastatin Calcium is a lipid-lowering agent that is used to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), apolipoprotein B (Apo B), and triglycerides (TG), and to increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in adult patients with primary hyperlipidemia or mixed dyslipidemia. It is a member of the drug class known as statins, which are used primarily for lowering cholesterol and preventing cardiovascular disease.

Pharmacology

Pitavastatin Calcium is a synthetic lipophilic statin. It works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that plays a central role in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By inhibiting this enzyme, pitavastatin calcium reduces the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver, leading to a decrease in total cholesterol and LDL-C levels in the blood.

Clinical Use

Pitavastatin Calcium is indicated for the reduction of elevated total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, Apo B, and TG levels, and to increase HDL-C in adult patients with primary hyperlipidemia or mixed dyslipidemia. It is also used to slow the progression of atherosclerosis in adult patients with coronary heart disease.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Pitavastatin Calcium include muscle pain, abdominal pain, back pain, and diarrhea. Serious side effects may include rhabdomyolysis, a condition that can lead to kidney failure.

Interactions

Pitavastatin Calcium can interact with other medications, including other cholesterol-lowering medications, certain antibiotics, and antifungal medications. It is important to inform healthcare providers of all medications being taken to avoid potential interactions.

See Also

• Statins
• Hyperlipidemia
• Dyslipidemia
• Cardiovascular disease
• Atherosclerosis