Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Pitavastatin Calcium is a brand name. Its generic name is Pitavastatin Calcium.
Pitavastatin Calcium: Overview
Pitavastatin Calcium is a prescription medication used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs known as statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors). Pitavastatin is also used to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other heart complications in people with diabetes, coronary artery disease, or other risk factors.Uses of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium is used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as stroke or heart attack, in certain individuals with certain risk factors. Pitavastatin Calcium can also be used to reduce levels of triglycerides and bad (LDL) cholesterol in the blood and increase the good (HDL) cholesterol.Mechanism of Action of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium works by blocking the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for the production of cholesterol in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, Pitavastatin Calcium helps to reduce the amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood. This decreased cholesterol level helps to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other heart diseases.How Long Does it Take for Pitavastatin Calcium to Work?
The effects of Pitavastatin Calcium can usually be seen within 2 weeks of initiation. However, it may take up to 8 weeks for cholesterol levels to be lowered significantly.Absorption of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium is rapidly absorbed and has a bioavailability of about 79%.Route of Elimination of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium is eliminated through the intestine and bile.Dosage Information of Pitavastatin Calcium
The recommended starting dose for Pitavastatin Calcium is 2-4 mg per day. The dosage may be increased to 8 mg daily based on the individual’s response and condition. Doses of more than 8 mg should not be taken.Administration of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium is usually taken by mouth once a day with or without food. Take each dose at the same time each day.Side Effects of Pitavastatin Calcium
Common side effects of Pitavastatin Calcium include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and headache. Less common side effects include muscle ache, joint pain, dizziness, and rash.Toxicity of Pitavastatin Calcium
The maximum recommended dose for Pitavastatin Calcium is 8 mg per day. Taking higher doses than recommended can cause serious side effects, including jaundice, liver failure, and muscle damage.Precautions for using Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium should be used with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease, diabetes, and allergies. Patients with these conditions should discuss their condition with their doctor before taking Pitavastatin CalciumInteractions of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium may interact with certain medications, such as antifungals, HIV protease inhibitors, and certain antibiotics. Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking, to ensure that your treatment regimen is safe and effective.Disease Interaction of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium may not be suitable for patients with certain conditions such as thyroid disorders, kidney or liver disease, or inherited blood problems. Talk to your doctor before starting Pitavastatin Calcium if you have any pre-existing conditions.Drug Interactions of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium may interact with certain drugs, such as antifungals, HIV protease inhibitors, and certain antibiotics. Be sure to inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking, to ensure that your treatment regimen is safe and effective.Food Interactions of Pitavastatin Calcium
Food does not appear to affect the absorption of Pitavastatin Calcium. However, it is important to take Pitavastatin Calcium at the same time each day, with or without food.Pregnancy Use of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium is not recommended for use in pregnant women. The safety of Pitavastatin Calcium use during pregnancy has not been established.Lactation Use of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women. The safety of Pitavastatin Calcium use during lactation has not been established.Acute Overdose of Pitavastatin Calcium
If an overdose of Pitavastatin Calcium is suspected, contact your local poison control center or seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an acute overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.Contraindication of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease or unexplained, persistent elevations of serum transaminases. It should also not be used by people who are allergic to Pitavastatin Calcium or any of its components.Use Direction of Pitavastatin Calcium
Take Pitavastatin Calcium exactly as prescribed by your doctor. For best results, take it at the same time each day, with or without food. Do not take more or less than recommended.Storage Condition of Pitavastatin Calcium
Store Pitavastatin Calcium at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.Volume of Distribution of Pitavastatin Calcium
Pitavastatin Calcium has a volume of distribution of approximately 2.4 L/kg in humans.Half Life of Pitavastatin Calcium
The elimination half-life of Pitavastatin Calcium is up to 10 hours.Clearance of Pitavastatin Calcium
The clearance of Pitavastatin Calcium is approximately 0.20–0.25 L/h/kg in humans.Here you find in details version of Pitavastatin Calcium
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Pitavastatin Calcium
What is Pitavastatin Calcium?
Pitavastatin Calcium is a statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) used to lower levels of triglycerides, cholesterol, and other fatty substances in the blood, and to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other heart complications in people with diabetes, coronary heart disease, or other risk factors.
Does Pitavastatin Calcium have any side effects?
Common side effects of Pitavastatin Calcium may include constipation, diarrhea, headache, increased liver enzymes, and muscle and joint pain. Serious side effects may include liver damage, low blood pressure, muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis), and high blood sugar levels leading to coma.
What is the recommended dosage of Pitavastatin Calcium?
The recommended starting dose of Pitavastatin Calcium is 2 mg daily and may be increased to a maximum of 4 mg daily. Consult your doctor regarding the appropriate dose for your particular case.
Can I take Pitavastatin Calcium with other medications?
It is important to tell your doctor about all medications, dietary supplements, herbs, and vitamins that you are taking. Some medications may interact with Pitavastatin Calcium by increasing or decreasing its effectiveness or causing potentially dangerous side effects.
Can I take Pitavastatin Calcium if I am pregnant?
Pitavastatin Calcium should not be taken during pregnancy as it can cause harm to the unborn baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking this medication.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Pitavastatin Calcium?
If you miss a dose of Pitavastatin Calcium, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed dose.
What are the possible drug interactions of Pitavastatin Calcium?
Pitavastatin Calcium may interact with other medications, including antifungal drugs, cholesterol lowering medications, antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and warfarin. Talk to your doctor about possible drug interactions before taking this medication.
What should I avoid while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Pitavastatin Calcium as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Also, avoid activities that require mental alertness such as driving as pitavastatin can cause drowsiness.
How should I store Pitavastatin Calcium?
Pitavastatin Calcium should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Do not store Pitavastatin Calcium in the bathroom.
Can children take Pitavastatin Calcium?
Pitavastatin Calcium is not recommended for use in children under age 18. Consult your doctor about other options for managing your child's cholesterol levels.
What are the common signs of an allergic reaction to Pitavastatin Calcium?
Signs of an allergic reaction to Pitavastatin Calcium may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
What if I take an overdose of Pitavastatin Calcium?
If you take an overdose of Pitavastatin Calcium, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Control Center immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include chest pain, nausea, and an irregular heartbeat.
What is the difference between Pitavastatin Calcium and Atorvastatin Calcium?
Pitavastatin Calcium is a newer statin, and is generally believed to be more effective than atorvastatin calcium in reducing cholesterol levels. Pitavastatin Calcium also has fewer side effects and is considered to be less likely to cause muscle and liver damage.
Can Pitavastatin Calcium be used to treat high blood pressure?
No, Pitavastatin Calcium is not used to treat high blood pressure. It is used to lower levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and other fatty substances in the blood, and to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other heart complications.
What should I do if I experience difficulty breathing while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
Difficulty breathing is a serious side effect of Pitavastatin Calcium and should be reported to your doctor immediately. You should also seek medical help if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Can I take Pitavastatin Calcium if I have diabetes?
Yes, Pitavastatin Calcium can be used to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other heart complications in people with diabetes, coronary heart disease, or other risk factors.
Can I take herbal supplements while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
Before taking any herbal supplements, consult your doctor. Some herbal supplements can interact with Pitavastatin Calcium and cause potentially dangerous side effects.
Can I take Pitavastatin Calcium if I have kidney disease?
Pitavastatin Calcium is generally not recommended for use in people with kidney disease. Consult your doctor for advice on managing your cholesterol levels.
Can I drink grapefruit juice while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
No, you should not drink grapefruit juice while taking Pitavastatin Calcium, as it may increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor about other drinks you can have while taking Pitavastatin Calcium.
What should I do if I experience chest pain while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
Chest pain is a serious side effect of Pitavastatin Calcium and should be reported to your doctor immediately. You should also seek medical help if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Can I take Pitavastatin Calcium if I have liver disease?
Pitavastatin Calcium is generally not recommended for use in people with liver disease. Consult your doctor for advice on managing your cholesterol levels.
What should I do if I experience muscle pain while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
Muscle pain is a common side effect of Pitavastatin Calcium and usually goes away after a period of time. If the pain persists or worsens, contact your doctor about other options for managing your cholesterol levels.
Does Pitavastatin Calcium cause weight gain?
No, Pitavastatin Calcium usually does not cause weight gain. But, some people may experience weight gain as a side effect of the medication. If you experience unexplained weight gain, contact your doctor for advice.
What should I tell my doctor before starting Pitavastatin Calcium?
Tell your doctor about all medications, dietary supplements, herbs, and vitamins that you are taking. Also tell your doctor if you have any allergies, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have any other medical conditions.
Can I take Pitavastatin Calcium with other medications to lower cholesterol?
No, it is not advised to take Pitavastatin Calcium with other medications to lower cholesterol. Talk to your doctor about any other medications you are taking, and if there are any potential interactions with Pitavastatin Calcium.
Do I need to follow any special diet while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
You should follow a heart-healthy diet while taking Pitavastatin Calcium. This includes eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and reducing your intake of saturated fat, trans fat, and sodium.
What should I do if I experience joint pain while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
Joint pain is a common side effect of Pitavastatin Calcium and usually goes away after a period of time. If the pain persists or worsens, contact your doctor about other options for managing your cholesterol levels.
Can Pitavastatin Calcium be used to treat high triglyceride levels?
Yes, Pitavastatin Calcium is used to lower levels of triglycerides, cholesterol, and other fatty substances in the blood, and to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other heart complications.
Can I take Pitavastatin Calcium with aspirin?
Yes, you can take Pitavastatin Calcium with aspirin. However, it is important to tell your doctor about all medications, dietary supplements, herbs, and vitamins that you are taking as some may interact with Pitavastatin Calcium.
Can I take other cholesterol-lowering medications while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
No, it is not advised to take other cholesterol-lowering medications while taking Pitavastatin Calcium as this may increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor about other options for managing your cholesterol levels.
Can I get a flu shot while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
Yes, you can get a flu shot while taking Pitavastatin Calcium. However, make sure to tell your doctor that you are taking this medication, as some vaccinations may interact with statins.
Can I take other medications to help lower my cholesterol while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
No, it is not advised to take other medications to lower your cholesterol while taking Pitavastatin Calcium as this may increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor about other options for managing your cholesterol levels.
Is there a generic form of Pitavastatin Calcium available?
Yes, there is a generic form of Pitavastatin Calcium available. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the availability of generic medications in your area.
Can I take vitamin supplements while taking Pitavastatin Calcium?
Before taking any vitamin supplements, consult your doctor. Some vitamins can interact with Pitavastatin Calcium and cause potentially dangerous side effects.