Crestor (Rosuvastatin Calcium) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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Stroke »

What is a stroke?

Brain cell function requires a constant delivery of oxygen and glucose from the bloodstream. A stroke, or cerebrovascular accident (CVA), occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is disrupted, causing brain cells to die. Blood flow can be compromised by a variety of mechanisms.

Blockage of an artery

Narrowing of the small arteries within the brain can cause a lacunar stroke, (lacune means "empty space"). Blockage of a single arteriole can affect a tiny area of brain causing that tissue to die (infarct).
Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) leading to the brain. There are four major blood vessels that supply the brain with blood. The anterior circulation of the brain that controls most motor activity, sensation, thought, speech, and emotion is supplied by the carotid arteries. The posterior circulation, which supplies the brainstem and the cer...

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Crestor Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking rosuvastatin (Crestor)?

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to rosuvastatin, if you have liver disease, or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take rosuvastatin:

kidney disease;
underactive thyroid;
a muscle disorder;
epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
an electrolyte imbalance (such as high or low potassium levels in your blood);
a severe infection or illness; or
if you have had a very recent surgery or medical emergency.

People of Asian descent may absorb rosuvastatin at a higher rate than other people. Make sure your doctor knows if you are Asian. You may need a lower than normal starting dose.

FDA pregnancy category X. This medication can cause birth defects. Do not use rosuvastatin if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.

Rosuvastatin may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not breast-feed while you are taking rosuvastatin.

How should I take rosuvastatin (Crestor)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take this medication with a full glass of water.

Rosuvastatin is usually taken once a day. You may take the medicine with or without food. Take rosuvastatin at the same time each day.

It is important to use rosuvastatin regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

In rare cases, rosuvastatin can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue. This condition can lead to kidney failure, and may be more likely to occur in older adults and in people of Asian descent who take rosuvastatin. Call your doctor at once if you have unexplained muscle pain or tenderness, muscle weakness, fever or flu symptoms, and dark colored urine.

Rosuvastatin is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

Do not stop using rosuvastatin without first talking to your doctor. It may take several weeks of taking the medication before your condition improves.

Store rosuvastatin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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