Lescol (generic name: fluvastatin) is prescribed to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) cholesterol, triglycerides (fats), and total cholesterol levels in the blood. Fluvastatin is a member of the statin class of drugs. Fluvastatin is meant to be taken in conjunction with a diet that reduces the intake of fats. Patients can be in danger of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) or a stroke coming from the buildup of plaque in the blood vessels, which is due to elevated levels of “bad” cholesterol. Also, there can be a decrease in HDL (“good” cholesterol), which is associated with a low risk of heart disease. Fluvastatin also improves the normal functioning of blood vessels by slowing down their blockage.

Dosage

The prescribing doctor will set the dose and regimen. The usual dose is 20-40 mg, taken once a day. It is recommended to take Lescol at night. The drug is completely absorbed within 1-2 hours, but several weeks may pass before the positive effect is fully felt. Don’t break, crush or chew Fluvastatin tablets. If a dose is forgotten, it should be taken immediately when remembered unless there are less than four hours left until the next dose, in which case it should be skipped and continued as usual.

Caution

Pregnant women should not be using Fluvastatin as it might harm the unborn baby and pose a risk of miscarriage. For this reason, women planning to become pregnant should use appropriate birth control measures during the treatment and one month after taking the last dose.  Fluvastatin may pass into breast milk, and mothers should consult with a doctor if already feeding or planning to feed an infant.

Storage

Store the medicine safely, away from children’s reach. Store at temperatures between 15 -30°C (59 -86°F). Read our tips on handling medicine safely.

Q&A

What are the main signs of high cholesterol?

When a person experiences more than one of these signs, it can indicate that their cholesterol levels are too high:

• High Blood Pressure
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Diabetes
• Chest pain or angina
• Spasms or leg cramps
• Pain while walking.

Is it possible to have elevated cholesterol levels and still maintain health?

Simply having high cholesterol doesn’t necessarily indicate poor health. However, elevated levels of low density lipoprotein (LDL) or ‘bad’ cholesterol can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke. The body does need a supply of cholesterol for proper functioning but high density lipoprotein (LDL) or “good” cholesterol doesn’t lead to the depositing of plaque in the blood vessels.

Is fluvastatin still on the market?

Lescol was the brand name of fluvastatin marketed in the US by Novartis. Although it was withdrawn from the market by Novartis in 2020, it is available as a generic version that is still approved by the FDA.  The brand (Lescol) from Novartis has been discontinued.