While there are some common side effects associated with lovastatin, it is important to remember that your doctor prescribed this medication because the benefits of keeping your cholesterol at healthy levels outweigh any adverse side effects it may cause. The most common side effects include:
Constipation
Memory loss or forgetfulness
Confusion
Let your doctor know if you experience any side effects that are serious or don’t go away. Some side effects can be serious. Get immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
Fatigue
Fever
Dark colored urine
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Pain in the upper right part of the stomach
Nausea
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Loss of appetite
Flu-like symptoms
Rash
Hives
Itching
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs.
Hoarseness
Let your doctor know of all allergies you may have as well as a complete list of medications (prescription and over-the-counter), vitamins, and supplements that you’re taking. Many medications do not interact well with lovastatin.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had liver disease or if you have or have ever had seizures, muscle aches or weakness, low blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking lovastatin, stop taking lovastatin and call your doctor immediately.
For more information regarding precautions and possible side effects, please visit the National Institutes of Health’s DailyMed webpage.