Rosuvastatin (Crestor)

Rosuvastatin (Crestor) is a statin that can reduce the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or ‘bad’) cholesterol in the blood. This can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. Statins work by inhibiting the enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase, which is responsible for the production of cholesterol. It is manufactured by AstraZeneca.

Rosuvastatin is a useful drug for use in HIV-positive patients, as it can reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which can be elevated by antiretroviral therapy.1 However, in contrast to some other statins, it does not have any significant interactions with currently available protease inhibitors or non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs).

Side-effects of rosuvastatin can include muscle pain and breakdown of muscle tissue, and upset stomach.

References

  1. Calza L et al. Rosuvastatin for the treatment of hyperlipidaemia in HIV-infected patients receiving protease inhibitors: a pilot study. AIDS 19: 1103-1105, 2005

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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.