Frequently asked questions for Pitavastatin
Pitavastatin
Q. What is Pitavastatin used for?
Pitavastatin is used along with a healthy diet and exercise to reduce bad cholesterol and increase the amount of good cholesterol in the blood. It belongs to a class of medicines called statins that lower the cholesterol in the blood. It works by slowing the production of cholesterol in the liver in order to decrease the amount of cholesterol that accumulates on the walls of the arteries. Improving the levels of cholesterol in the blood helps to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.Q. What is the most important thing I should be aware of while using Pitavastatin?
If you notice unexplained muscle pain or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever, you should immediately consult your doctor. Pitavastatin should be discontinued immediately as these could be signs of serious side effects of Pitavastatin. Similarly, if you experience tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine or yellowish discoloration of skin, consult your doctor who will suggest whether to continue or discontinue Pitavastatin.Q. Can I take Pitavastatin if I have liver disease or if my liver enzymes are raised?
No, you should not take Pitavastatin if you have active liver disease and if your liver enzymes are increased. Taking Pitavastatin will further deteriorate your liver condition.Q. Will taking Pitavastatin increase my risk of diabetes?
Yes, taking Pitavastatin may further increase the risk if you are already at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This is because Pitavastatin like other statins may cause an increase in blood sugar levels. Hence, regular checking and monitoring of blood sugar levels are important if you already have diabetes, especially during the first few months.Q. Is it safe to take Pitavastatin?
Yes, Pitavastatin is safe if used as prescribed by the doctor and if the doctor’s instructions are followed. The side effects of this medicine are few and do not occur in everyone.Q. For how long should I take Pitavastatin?
You may need to take Pitavastatin for life or for as long as directed by your doctor. The cholesterol levels will be maintained only until you are taking Pitavastatin. Stopping Pitavastatin without starting a different treatment may increase your cholesterol levels again. This medicine has only a few side effects and is usually considered safe if taken as directed by the doctor.Q. What foods should be avoided when taking Pitavastatin?
Pitavastatin is used to decrease your blood cholesterol levels. Therefore, to seek the best results of this medicine, you should avoid foods which are high in calories like fried food and junk food. It is recommended to eat a low-fat and low-cholesterol diet. Be sure to follow all the exercise and dietary recommendations made by your doctor or dietician.Q. Does Pitavastatin make you tired?
Yes, Pitavastatin can make you feel tired. This is because they reduce the energy supply to the muscles in the body. However, the exact reason behind the phenomenon is unknown and needs more research. Tiredness usually occurs after exertion. Generalized fatigue is more often seen in people with heart disease or in those suffering from liver illness. Pitavastatin also causes muscle damage which further worsens the tiredness. Therefore, you must consult your doctor if you feel tired while taking Pitavastatin.Q. Does Pitavastatin cause hair loss?
No, hair loss has not been reported with the use of Pitavastatin. If you are experiencing hair loss then it could be due to some other medicine that you are taking or because of some other condition.Q. Can I take alcohol with Pitavastatin?
No. It is not advised to take alcohol with Pitavastatin. This is because the risk of developing liver problems increases if you drink alcohol while taking this medicine. Moreover, there is a significant increase in triglyceride levels if Pitavastatin is taken along with alcohol. This can further lead to liver damage and also worsen some of the side effects such as muscle pain, muscle weakness and tenderness. People with liver problems are therefore advised, not to take Pitavastatin without consulting your doctor. They should also refrain from consuming alcohol while taking this medicine to get maximum benefit.