Livalo (Pitavastatin) from Maple Leaf Medications.

What is Livalo?

Livalo, with the generic name pitavastatin, is an oral medication used to reduce total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoprotein B (Apo B), and to increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) among adults with primary hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidemia. It is also used among children 8 years and older to manage heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.

This HMG CoA reductase inhibitor works by decreasing the total plasma cholesterol by accelerating the uptake of low-density lipoprotein or LDL from blood to the liver. This sustained inhibition of cholesterol synthesis in the liver can also decrease the levels of LDL. This is available in Livalo 4 mg, Livalo 2 mg, and 1 mg tablet forms.

How to use Livalo

To start, read the medication information leaflet that comes with this product. Avoid taking this statin if you have not yet fully understood the drug information and instructions in the guide. In case you need further medical advice or have questions on Livalo uses, you may ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this tablet orally. You may take it with or without a meal or as directed by your physician. Swallow the tablet and drink a glass of water afterward. Cutting, chewing, or crushing this drug is not recommended.

If you are prescribed with other medications to lower cholesterol, especially bile-acid binding resins, take Livalo at least an hour before or 4 hours after these medications. Some cholesterol-lowering drugs might interact with pitavastatin and prevent its full absorption.

Remember to take this oral drug regularly and with a dosing schedule to achieve the best results. Your Livalo dosage and frequency will depend on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you are taking. Do not alter your dosing or stop taking this medication abruptly to avoid worsening conditions or increased risk of side effects.

This medication is only an adjunct to regular exercise and a balanced diet. It is important to stick to the treatment plant recommended by your doctor for this medication to work.

Livalo Side Effects

Common

• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

For the most part, the side effects caused by this drug are mild and temporary. They are expected to resolve even without intervention. However, if these adverse reactions worsen or persist, call your doctor or any healthcare professional. You also need to report severe side effects, which include:

• Memory loss
• Confusion
• Signs of kidney disease (changes in the amount of urine)
• Hyperglycemia or high blood sugar
• Muscle weakness
• Signs of liver problems (stomach pain, persistent vomiting, dark urine, yellowish skin or eyes)
• Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis and autoimmune myopathy (unexplained muscle pain / tenderness, fatigue, fever)

This is not a complete or full list of Livalo side effects.

Precautions when using Livalo

Before starting to use this medication, make sure to disclose your full medical history to your doctor, especially any history of kidney problems, liver disease, heart disease, and alcohol abuse. Some medical conditions may significantly affect how your body will respond to treatment. You also have to tell your physician about all the prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, for they might have drug interactions with pitavastatin.

Constantly watch out for an allergic reaction while on this medication. Do not take this statin if you have a known allergy to pitavastatin or any inactive ingredients each tablet may contain. Discontinue medication and seek emergency use once you manifest signs of hypersensitivity such as swelling of the face, skin rash, severe dizziness, itching, and breathing trouble.

Limit, or if possible, avoid drinking alcohol while using this medication. Regular alcohol intake will further increase the risk of liver problems, especially if combined with pitavastatin.

This statin could possibly cause harm to unborn babies. With this, pregnant mothers should avoid using this medication. For breastfeeding women, use this medication only if clearly needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for this medication to take effect?

It may take a month for this medication to work.

What is the difference between Livalo and Lipitor?

On Livalo vs Lipitor, both medications are HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. They are both safe and effective in lowering cholesterol levels.

Can this medication cause weight gain?

Weight changes are not linked to Livalo side effects – weight gain or weight loss.

Does this medication raise blood sugar levels?

This drug could increase your blood sugar level. That is why you need to monitor your blood sugar while on this medication.

Can I buy Livalo (pitavastatin) over the counter?

No, you need a valid prescription to purchase this drug.