Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/2/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of rosuvastatin can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of rosuvastatin use include:

• Headache
  
• Dizziness
  
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
  
• Muscle weakness
  
• Muscle pain
  
• Joint pain
  
• Constipation
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Fatigue
  
• Sleep problems (insomnia)
  
  

More severe side effects of rosuvastatin use can include:

• Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness)
  
• Liver problems (such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain)
  
• Allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing)
  
• Pancreatitis (severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting)
  
• Memory problems or confusion
  
• High blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia)
  
• Low levels of platelets in the blood (thrombocytopenia)
  
  

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking rosuvastatin, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with rosuvastatin. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with rosuvastatin.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Other cholesterol medications
  
• Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
  
• Antibiotics or antifungals
  
• Antacids
  
• Chemotherapy medications
  
• Heart medications
  
• HIV/AIDS medications
  
• Hepatitis medications
  
• Thyroid medications
  
• Diabetes medications
  
• Immunosuppressant medications
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• High blood pressure
  
• Heart disease
  
• Kidney or liver problems
  
• Diabetes
  
• Thyroid disorders
  
• Muscle disorders
  
• Alcohol use disorder
  
• Seizure disorder
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using rosuvastatin to assess potential risks and benefits.

Patients who are of East Asian descent may need dosage adjustments.

Take rosuvastatin with a full glass of water to ensure proper absorption and minimize the risk of stomach upset.

Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking rosuvastatin, as it may interact with the medication.

Follow a healthy diet and exercise routine recommended by your healthcare provider to complement the effects of rosuvastatin in lowering cholesterol levels.

Limit alcohol consumption while taking rosuvastatin, as it can increase the risk of liver problems and interfere with the medication's effectiveness.

In case of a rosuvastatin overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.