Patients who have hypercholesterolemia (too much cholesterol in their bloodstream) may be put on Mevacor or its generic brand Lovastatin. Mevacor is prescribed to slow down the effects of coronary heart disease.

If diet, exercise, and weight loss have not worked to lower your cholesterol then taking Mevacor should help. Patients must remember that Mevacor is a supplement for treating your cholesterol problem. It is by no means a substitute for losing weight or being on a healthy diet.

Take Mevacor with your meals. If you skip a dose then take it as soon as you remember. If, however, you remember that you forgot to take it close to when you should be taking your next dose then skip the one you missed and keep taking it as prescribed. Never take two doses at one time.

Side effects are possible, but should be very mild. Speak with your doctor if any of the following conditions occur while taking Mevacor: dizziness, muscle pain, weakness or cramps, itching, diarrhea, constipation, blurred vision, nausea, or abdominal pain. If you experience any of these conditions, your doctor will decide if he wants to keep you on Mevacor or prescribe a new medication for you.

Be sure to let your doctor know you are being treated for liver disease if Mevacor is prescribed for you. Women who are pregnant or plan to conceive should not take Mevacor. If you become pregnant while taking Mevacor, stop taking it immediately, because it may be a hazard for your growing fetus. Women who are breastfeeding should not take Mevacor.

Your doctor will keep a close eye on your reaction to Mevacor if you are being treated for hypothyroidism, diabetes, kidney and blood vessel disorders, or liver disease. Being treated for any of these conditions while taking Mevacor may actually increase your blood cholesterol. If you notice any muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, notify your doctor immediately. There is a possibility that you may be suffering from damage to your muscle tissue, and your doctor will want to perform a blood test to rule out muscle damage.

Be sure to store Mevacor at room temperature. Keep the container away from light and make sure it is tightly closed.

Mevacor is recommended for individuals over the age of 10.