Product Information
Altocor (Lovastatin) is an extended-release form of the cholesterol-lowering drug lovastatin. By releasing small amounts of Altocor (Lovastatin) throughout the day, Altocor (Lovastatin)maintains a relatively steady level of lovastatin in the bloodstream. Altocor (Lovastatin) is prescribed to slow the clogging process in people who already have heart disease, and to fend off clogged arteries in people at risk of developing the disease. Altocor (Lovastatin) reduces the level of "bad" LDL cholesterol and raises the level of "good" HDL cholesterol. For people at high risk of heart disease, current guidelines suggest drug therapy when the LDL level reaches 130. Altocor (Lovastatin) is usually prescribed only if diet, exercise, and weight loss fail to bring your cholesterol level under control. It is important to remember that Altocor (Lovastatin) is a supplement--not a substitute--for those other measures. To get the full benefit of Altocor (Lovastatin), you need to stick to the diet and exercise program prescribed by your doctor. Altocor (Lovastatin) is taken once a day at bedtime. Swallow Altocor (Lovastatin)whole. Do not break, chew, crush, or cut the tablets. Side effects of Altocor (Lovastatin) can include Back pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, headache, infection, injury, joint pain, muscle pain, sinus inflammation, unspecified pain, and weakness.
