Information About Altoprev

Common uses
Altoprev is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (also known as a "statin") used in combination with a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in your blood. It may also be used in certain adolescent patients, age 10 to 17 years, who have a genetically caused cholesterol problem. Altoprev is not a cure for high cholesterol, but may help to control it. Altoprev may also be used in certain patients to reduce the risk of heart attack, blood vessel blockage, or chest pain. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your physician.

Prior to Use
Be aware that pre-existing medical conditions, or taking additional medications could interfere with the effectiveness of this one. Let your physician or pharmacist know about any other medications -- prescription or over-the-counter -- that you are using. If you are taking any of the following, do not use Altoprev: gemfibrozil, hiv protease inhibitors (such as ritonavir, lopinavir, or nelfinavir), azole antifungals (such as itraconazole or ketoconazole), macrolide antibiotics (such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, or troleandomycin), or nefazodone. If you are currently taking any of these medicines, tell your physician or pharmacist before starting to take Altoprev. If you are taking any of the following, your dose or condition may need regular supervision: amiodarone, "blood thinners" such as warfarin, bosentan, cyclosporine, diltiazem, fluconazole, imatinib, high doses of niacin (1 gram or more per day), fibrates (such as clofibrate or fenofibrate), verapamil, dalfopristin, quinupristin, voriconazole, or St. John's wort. Do not start or stop any medicine without physician or pharmacist approval. Inform your physician of any other medical conditions, including muscle problems, alcohol use, allergies (especially to other "statins"), pregnancy, or breast-feeding. You should not take Altoprev if you have a history of liver disease or abnormal liver function test results. Certain medical conditions, including low blood pressure; severe infection; uncontrolled seizures; or serious metabolic, endocrine, or electrolyte problems may increase your risk for side effects that can result in kidney problems while taking Altoprev. Contact your physician if you develop one of these conditions. If you have questions or concerns about Altoprev, be sure to let your physician or pharmacist know.

Instructions for Use
Follow your physician's instructions for taking Altoprev. Swallow whole Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing. Take this at bedtime unless directed otherwise by your physician. Dosage is based on your medical condition, response to therapy, and use of certain interacting medicines. Consult your physician or pharmacist for more details. Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice at the same time you take Altoprev. It is best to keep Altoprev away from heat and light, at room temperature. Should you skip or forget a dose of Altoprev, begin using it immediately. If it is almost time for your next dose, omit the skipped dose and continue to follow your original dosing schedule. Never take more than one dose at the same time.

Warnings
Do not use Altoprev if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. Laboratory and/or medical tests, including liver function tests and blood cholesterol levels, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Keep all physician and laboratory appointments while you are using Altoprev. Before having any kind of surgery, tell your physician that you are taking Altoprev. Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while you are taking Altoprev may increase the amount of Altoprev in your blood, which may increase your risk for serious side effects. Talk with your physician before including grapefruit or grapefruit juice in your diet while you are taking Altoprev. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, consult your pharmacist or physician . Women, do not use Altoprev if you are pregnant. Be sure to consult your physician if you think you might be pregnant immediately. It is recommended that women of childbearing age use effective birth control measures while taking Altoprev since lovastatin may cause fetal harm. The effects of Altoprev on breast milk is not known. You should not breast-feed if you are using Altoprev.

Potential Side Effects
A side effect that may occur while taking Altoprev include constipation. If it continues or is bothersome, check with your physician. Consult your physician immediately if you experience rash, yellow skin or eyes, unusual bleeding or bruising, or sore throat. Altoprev may infrequently cause muscle damage (which can rarely lead to a very serious condition called rhabdomyolysis). Stop taking Altoprev and contact your physician immediately if you experience muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness). An allergic reaction to Altoprev is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. Let your physician, pharmacist, or nurse know if you experience any side-effects not listed here.

Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.

In Case of Overdose
Contact a poison control center or visit an emergency room immediately, if you think you have overdosed.

Additional information
For best results, Altoprev should be used along with exercise, a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet, and a weight loss program if you are overweight. Follow the dietary plan provided by your physician. Do not let anyone else use Altoprev. Do not take Altoprev to treat health conditions other than what it was prescribed for. Store this and all medication away from the reach of children and pets. If using Altoprev for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.