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Rosuvastatin Side Effects

Rosuvastatin is a cholesterol-lowering drug in the category called statins. Available under the brand name Crestor, rosuvastatin is usually prescribed when diet and exercise have not fully worked to lower dangerously-high cholesterol levels. Several side effects are possible.

  1. Most Common Effects

    • In clinical studies with rosuvastatin, as detailed by eMedTV, the most common side effects included muscle aches or pain, joint pain and headache. These were experienced by 8 to 12 percent of participants.

    Other Side Effects

    • Other effects occurring in 2 to 6 percent of participants included abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, weakness and dizziness.

    Less Common Effects

    • Other possible side effects include coughing, difficulty swallowing, dry or sore throat, hoarseness or voice changes, runny nose or nasal congestion and swollen neck glands.

    Rhabdomyolysis

    • Like other statins, rosuvastatin is linked to a serious muscle breakdown disorder called rhabdomyolysis. As muscle breaks down, it releases the protein myoglobin into the bloodstream, which can cause kidney damage.

    Liver Issues

    • Because rosuvastatin works by limiting the liver's ability to produce cholesterol, it may have other effects on the liver as well. Blood tests may indicate elevated liver enzymes, and other symptoms include jaundice, dark urine, nausea and fatigue.

    Allergic Reaction

    • Although very unlikely, some people have an allergic reaction to rosuvastatin. Signs are rash or hives, itching, swelling, dizziness and difficulty breathing.

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