Lovastatin, Structure, Metabolism, Mechanism Of Action, Drug Interactions, Therapeutic Uses, Side Effects and Contraindications
Lovastatin Lovastatin is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs known as statins, which are commonly prescribed to manage high cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in arteries), which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Lovastatin works by inhibiting an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, which is involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, lovastatin reduces the synthesis of cholesterol, leading to lower levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol in the bloodstream. Lovastatin is available under various brand names, including: 1. Mevacor 2. Altoprev These brand names may vary depending on the country and the pharmaceutical manufacturer. Metabolism Lovastatin undergoes a process of metabolism in the body, primarily in the liver. The metabolism of ...