Altocor is prescribed for patients who develop clogged arteries and heart disease. The generic brand for Altocor is Lovastatin. For people who have already been diagnosed with heart disease, Altocor will slow down the clogging process and fend off clogged arteries.

A proper diet and exercise routine must be used when taking Altocor. Combining Altocor with a healthy diet and exercise program will help to lower your cholesterol level. Talk with your doctor if you need help with finding a healthy diet and exercise program so that he can help refer you to a nutritionist.

Take Altocor daily when you go to bed. Swallow it whole and do not chew, crush or break apart the tablet. If you forget to take a dose then simply take it when you do remember. If, by chance, you remember to take it shortly before your next scheduled dosage then skip the one you missed and continue on with your schedule. Never take more than one dose at a time.

Side effects may occur while you’re on Altocor. Should you experience any let your doctor know and he will tell you if he wants you to continue taking Altocor. Possible side effects may include dizziness, diarrhea, headache, nausea, joint pain, insomnia, back pain, urinary tract infection, abdominal pain, or an infection.

If you have liver disease or form an allergic reaction to Altocor then you will be taken off of it. Pregnant women and women wanting to conceive should never take Altocor. Growing fetuses need cholesterol in the mother in order to grow properly. If you become pregnant while taking Altocor stop taking it immediately and inform your doctor.

Speak to your doctor immediately if you experience muscle tenderness, pain, weakness, or if you begin feeling sick while taking Altocor. If you have any of those symptoms you will be immediately taken off Altocor. There is a chance that Altocor may affect your liver. Your doctor will perform tests after six and twelve weeks of being prescribed Altocor to be sure that your liver is still working properly.

Be sure to store Altocor at room temperature and keep away from heat and humidity.

Altocor is not recommended for individuals under the age of 20.