Decreases LDL cholesterol levels by increasing the fractional catabolic rate of LDL and the liver's extraction of LDL precursors. Modest decrease in triglycerides. Modest increase in HDL cholesterol. Mild GI disturbances.
Hypersensitivity syndromes including a lupus-like disorder.
Patients should be monitored for damage to muscle. Shortened sleep period. Patients with severe hypercholesterolemia, with diabetes, or who have had a myocardial infarction. The HMG-CoA inhibitors are contraindicated in pregnant woman at this point. The HMG-CoA inhibitors are contraindicated in children at this point.