Fluvastatin Capsules

Fluvastatin is a medication used to manage high cholesterol levels and help prevent heart conditions, particularly after heart procedures. It contains the active ingredient of the same name. When taken daily, it lowers cholesterol levels and prevents plaque buildup in the arteries. This improves heart health and protects against serious cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke.

The branded version, Lescol, was first manufactured by Novartis in 1993, but has since been discontinued. However, a generic version was made available by Sandoz in 2015, followed by others, once again offering the effective cholesterol-lowering medication.

At euroClinix, we prescribe 20 mg and 40 mg Fluvastatin capsules to adults with high cholesterol.

Fluvastatin works by targeting an enzyme in the liver that's responsible for producing cholesterol. When this enzyme is blocked, the liver pulls cholesterol out of the bloodstream instead.

As a result, levels of LDL (often called "bad" cholesterol) in the blood drop, while HDL ("good" cholesterol) may see a mild increase. By keeping cholesterol levels in check, Fluvastatin helps slow the buildup of plaque in the arteries—reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and coronary artery disease.

Taking Fluvastatin for high cholesterol provides many benefits to your health:

Lowers harmful cholesterol

Effectively reduces LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels in the blood, helping to protect your heart.

Improves good cholesterol

Can gently increase HDL ("good") cholesterol, which helps remove harmful cholesterol from your bloodstream.

Reduces blood fats

Helps lower triglycerides – a type of fat in your blood that can increase your risk of heart problems when levels are too high.

Protects your heart

Lowers the risk of serious heart problems, especially for people who already have heart disease.

Convenient dosing

Capsules are usually taken once daily, making it easy to remember and incorporate into your schedule.

Generally well-tolerated

Many people experience fewer side effects with Fluvastatin compared to other cholesterol medicines, making it a good choice if you've had trouble with other statins.

Fluvastatin is a highly effective treatment for lowering cholesterol levels, improving heart health and reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events.

One meta-analysis of 145 clinical trials examined the effect Fluvastatin had on the blood cholesterol levels of 18,846 patients during 12 weeks of treatment. Here are the key findings:

• LDL cholesterol was reduced by up to 33%
• Total cholesterol (serum cholesterol) levels were reduced by up to 25%
• Triglycerides (blood fats) were reduced by up to 17.5%

While generally well-tolerated, Fluvastatin is not suitable for everyone. When you complete a consultation, our UK-registered doctors will determine whether treatment is safe for you.

Who can take it?

To obtain a prescription for Fluvastatin from euroClinix, you must be over 18 and suffer from high cholesterol.

Who cannot take it?

Do not take Fluvastatin if you:

• are allergic to fluvastatin or any other ingredient found in this medication
• currently have liver problems

Tell your doctor if either of these apply to you and they can suggest alternative treatment.

Cautions

Some conditions mean the safety of treatment will need to be determined by a doctor. Tell us in your consultation if you:

• have previously had a liver disease
• have ever had a kidney disease
• have ever had a thyroid disease
• have—or your family has—a history of muscle diseases
• had muscle problems with another lipid-lowering medication
• have a serious infection
• have very low blood pressure
• are about to have an operation
• have a severe disorder involving metabolism, hormones, or body salt levels
• have ever had myasthenia (a muscle disease)

Please disclose your health status during your online consultation with euroClinix. Our medical team will evaluate whether Fluvastatin is suitable for you and may adjust your medications if needed.

To use Fluvastatin correctly, follow the dosage and treatment course our medical team prescribes. This ensures the drug's effectiveness and helps avoid side effects

Dosage

Fluvastatin comes in 2 doses from euroClinix: 20 mg and 40 mg.

The average dose for adults is 20 mg to 80 mg daily. If taking 80 mg, you may be told to space out your doses throughout the day.

Your doctor may increase your dosage after 4 weeks.

When should I take it?

For best results, follow these tips on when and how to take your fluvastatin capsules:

• Take your capsule in the evening, with or without food.
• If prescribed twice daily, take one dose in the morning and one in the evening.
• Try to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your blood.

Whenever you take it, try to do so at roughly the same time every day. Make sure you swallow your capsule whole with a glass of water and don’t exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, and it is the same day, take it as soon as you remember.

If the day has passed, skip the missed dose and take your next one at the usual time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Most people begin to see results 2-4 weeks after their first dose, but it may take longer to see a significant change in your cholesterol levels.

Long-term treatment is crucial for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

Fluvastatin is usually taken for life. Once you stop taking it, your cholesterol levels may increase again. It’s important to regularly check your cholesterol levels to see how treatment is working for you.

Talk with your doctor about how long you need to take it for.

While taking Fluvastatin, a few simple habits can help you get the best results and support your overall health. Talk with your doctor for specialised advice and follow these tips on how to reduce cholesterol naturally.

Your Fluvastatin lifestyle guide

How to lower cholesterol

Choose heart-healthy foods

Focus on foods to lower cholesterol—ones rich in fibre and low in saturated fats. Include plenty of vegetables, fruits, legumes, and fatty fish, and limit red meat and high-fat dairy.

Exercise regularly

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise 5 days a week. Activities like brisk walking, swimming or cycling can do wonders for your heart.

Schedule frequent check-ups

Schedule periodic liver function tests alongside cholesterol monitoring. These assessments help ensure Fluvastatin remains safe and effective for you.

Practice stress management

Incorporate relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, gentle stretching, or nature walks. Managing stress supports overall cardiovascular health.

Maintain good sleep habits

Establish a regular sleep schedule, aiming for 7–8 hours a night. Quality sleep supports overall cardiovascular health and helps maintain healthy lifestyle habits.

When managing high cholesterol, a low-cholesterol diet rich in heart-friendly foods can make a real difference. Think oats, fatty fish, nuts, and olive oil — simple choices that support both your heart and overall health.

Silvia Fonda Nutritionist

Although mostly well-tolerated, Fluvastatin can cause side effects. Fluvastatin side effects include:

Common side effects

Serious side effects

Some side effects may be a sign of something more serious. Seek medical help immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness – could be an early sign of severe muscle degradation.
• Unusual tiredness or fever, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), or dark-coloured urine – could signal hepatitis.
• Skin reactions such as hives, redness, itching, or swelling of the face – signs of a severe allergic reaction.
• Bleeding or bruising more easily – could be due to a decreased number of platelets.
• Red or purple skin lesions – could be a sign of blood vessel inflammation.
• A red, blotchy rash mainly on the face – signs of drug-induced lupus.
• Severe upper stomach pain – may be a sign of an inflamed pancreas.

How to manage side effects

Most side effects should go away within a few days as your body gets used to the medicine. However, some may be persistent or bothersome. Here’s how to manage the most common Fluvastatin side effects:

Managing Fluvastatin side effects

Difficulty sleeping

Stick to a regular bedtime routine and avoid screens, caffeine, and heavy meals in the evening.

Headache

Stay well hydrated, limit caffeine, and stick to a regular sleep schedule to ease headaches and relieve pain.

Stomach discomfort

Eat smaller, frequent meals, avoid greasy foods, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Abdominal pain

Avoid spicy or heavy meals and consider using a warm compress on your abdomen to relieve pain.

Nausea

Eat bland foods like toast or crackers and avoid large, rich meals. Stay upright after eating.

Managing side effects of statins

Take Fluvastatin at the same time every day to help maintain steady levels in your body. If you experience severe muscle pain, weakness, or dizziness that doesn’t go away, consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Dr. Caroline Fontana Lead Prescribing Doctor

For more detailed information, please refer to the patient information leaflet.

Some medicines can impact the effectiveness of Fluvastatin or increase the risk of side effects. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take in your consultation, including the following:

Increases the risk of muscle problems

• Fucidic acid (an antibiotic)
• Ciclosporin (used to suppress the immune system)
• Fibrates (e.g. Gemfibrozil – used to lower triglycerides)
• Nicotinic acid (used to treat niacin deficiency)
• Bile acid sequestrants (used to lower cholesterol)
• Colchicine (gout medication)

Increases the risk of side effects

• Fluconazole (an antifungal medication)
• Rifampicin (an antibiotic)
• Phenytoin (epilepsy medication)

Other interactions

• Warfarin (an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots) – Fluvastatin may increase its blood-thinning effect, raising the risk of bleeding.
• Glibenclamide (used to treat diabetes) – Fluvastatin may interfere with blood sugar control and may require monitoring.

This list does not cover all possible interactions. For a comprehensive list, please visit the interactions checker on the BNF website.

Make sure you follow the safety guidelines detailed below during treatment. This ensures safety and reduces the risk of side effects.

Safety Tips

Alcohol Caution

Excessive amounts of alcohol can increase the risk of liver problems. Limit your intake while taking Fluvastatin.

Pregnancy Avoid

Do not take Fluvastatin if you are pregnant or suspect you might be. Statins can cause harm to the developing fetus, including birth defects.

Breastfeeding Avoid

Fluvastatin is not recommended while breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk and harm the baby. Consult your doctor for alternative treatments.

Driving Safe

Fluvastatin does not typically impair your ability to drive. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness or muscle pain, avoid driving and consult your doctor.

Smoking Avoid

Smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular issues and can interfere with the effectiveness of Fluvastatin. It is strongly advised to stop smoking while using Fluvastatin.

Follow these guidelines when storing your Fluvastatin capsules:

• Store below 30°C in the original packaging
• Protect from direct heat and moisture
• Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use this medicine after the expiry date

Disposal

Do not throw away medicines via wastewater or household waste.

Take any unused medication to your local pharmacy for proper disposal. These measures help to protect the environment.

No, Fluvastatin is a prescription-only medication. You need a valid prescription from a healthcare professional to purchase it. This ensures the medication is safe and suitable for your needs.

You can receive an online prescription from euroClinix.

Ordering Fluvastatin online from euroClinix is convenient.

Follow these simple steps:

1. Complete a quick online consultation to check your eligibility.
2. UK-registered doctors review your responses to ensure the medication is right for you.
3. Upon approval, an e-prescription will be issued.
4. Enjoy free delivery from our licensed pharmacy with tracking details.

Your privacy is our top priority. euroClinix uses secure, encrypted transactions and complies with UK medical standards to keep your information confidential.

Start your online consultation today to enjoy professional care from the comfort of your home.

euroClinix is trusted by thousands of users in the UK for its safe and convenient service. Here’s why:

• Experienced doctors manage your consultations and prescriptions.
• Online consultations, swift approvals, and discreet doorstep delivery make ordering quick and convenient.
• A supportive team is on hand to answer treatment-related questions or concerns.
• Patients can manage their prescriptions hassle-free through our secure platform.

Join thousands who trust euroClinix for their healthcare needs and take control of your health today.

The price of Fluvastatin at euroClinix includes everything you need:

• Free online consultation with our experienced doctors
• Free prescription, if approved
• Free delivery straight to your door

Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. Order today and benefit from our complete, all-inclusive service.

There are many statins available to lower your cholesterol, and one may be more suited to your needs. Consult this table to see how they compare:

Your healthcare provider will help you choose the most suitable statin based on your individual health profile.