Crestor or rosuvastatin is a prescription drug used to reduce cholesterol levels in the body. There are two types of cholesterol in the human organism, the LDL or bad cholesterol and the HDL or good cholesterol. If LDL levels are too high, patients can develop plaque buildup in the arteries. On the other hand HDL takes cholesterol to the liver, where it can be destroyed; therefore it is considered good cholesterol.
Rosuvastatin together with a healthy diet and physical exercises can reduce the amount of bad cholesterol in the body. Although it entered the market as one of the strongest medications of its class, it is often criticized because of the potential side effects it can develop.
Like all medications Crestor also has a series of side effects. It should not be taken at all by patients suffering from liver problems, by pregnant women, individuals allergic to any of its components or by patients taking other types of drugs. Some of the mild and most common side effects of the drug include: general weakness, muscle pain, nausea, headaches and abdominal pain.
However, the long term use of the medication can have more severe results. If patients notice unexplained strong muscle pain, weakness or fever, they should consult their doctor immediately, because the symptoms might be signs of liver or kidney damage. In even more severe cases heart muscle problems and heart failure has been reported. Rosuvastatin heart failure lawsuits are being filed by patients who suffered severe injuries due to the medication. The problem is believed to be caused by the low level of coenzyme Q10 reduced by the medication. Although additional research is still needed, patients with heart problems are advised to avoid taking the medication. If they already suffered serious injuries, they should contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss the possibility of financial compensations.
For more information in case of Crestor related severe side effects please contact a Rosuvastatin heart failure attorney.