Lowering Cholesterol with Crestor?

Your physician may prescribe Crestor when lowering cholesterol levels with exercise and diet have failed to work. This cholesterol medication is used in lowering total cholesterol levels as well as harmful levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Also, it has been found to reduce triglycerides, a form of fat carried in the bloodstream that can end up being stored as body fat. Crestor may also be combined with another medication in lowering cholesterol such as Colestid, Questran, or WelChol.

Crestor is used in lowering cholesterol levels by also increasing the amount of (good) cholesterol known as high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

It is believed that it is especially important to keep LDL cholesterol levels low as higher levels have been associated with heart disease. Federal guidelines have recommended that individuals consider drug therapy when LDL levels reach 130 in people who are at high risk for heart disease and for individuals with lower risk, the cut off is 160. For those with little or no risk it is 190.

Important fact about using Crestor in lowering cholesterol:

Crestor should only be used if diet, exercise and weight loss fail in lowering cholesterol levels. It is always important to recognize that Crestor should be used to supplement these lifestyle changes rather than as a replacement. To get the full benefit of this cholesterol medication, you should continue with your diet and exercise program as prescribed by your doctor. All these efforts in lowering cholesterol to normal levels are important as they lower your risk for heart disease.

How should you take this medication for lowering cholesterol?

Crestor is usually taken once a day with or without food. However, you can take this cholesterol medication at any time, although it’s best to make a habit of taking it at the same time every day to prevent missing doses. You should swallow each tablet whole with a glass of water.

If you need to taken an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium hydroxide, such as Maalox or Mylanta, you should always make sure to take it at least two hours after you take your dose of Crestor.

When should Crestor not be prescribed?

This medication should not be taken for lowering cholesterol if you have liver disease or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medication. Also, you should never take Crestor during pregnancy or while breast-feeding.

Special information about this cholesterol medication if you’re pregnant or breast-feeding:

Crestor should never be used in lowering cholesterol during pregnancy as a developing baby needs plenty of cholesterol. Your doctor will prescribe Crestor only if you’re highly unlikely to become pregnant while taking this drug. If you do become pregnant you should tell your physician immediately. Likewise, Crestor should never be used in lowering cholesterol if you’re breast-feeding.

Some information from The PDR Pocket Guide to Prescription Drugs

Additional information and webpage by Paul Susic M.A. Licensed Psychologist Ph.D Candidate (Health and Geriatric Psychologist)