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Lovastatin vs. Atorvastatin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Lovastatin (Mevacor) and atorvastatin (Lipitor) are both statins used to lower "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, and to raise "good" cholesterol (HDL). However, there are some key differences between the two. Lovastatin is a low-to-moderate intensity statin, while atorvastatin is a moderate-to-high intensity statin, meaning atorvastatin can lower cholesterol levels more effectively. Lovastatin is typically taken once a day with dinner, whereas atorvastatin is taken once daily and can be taken at any time of the day. Both medications can cause serious side effects like muscle pain and liver problems, as well as cause more common side effects such as joint pain and diarrhea. Additionally, atorvastatin is available as a liquid form (Atorvaliq) for those who have trouble swallowing tablets, while lovastatin does not have this option. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics.

Lovastatin

 

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Atorvastatin

(Lipitor)

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Summary for Lovastatin

Prescription only

Lovastatin is a low-to-moderate intensity statin that's taken once or twice per day. It's used to lower cholesterol in certain adults and children ages 10 years and older to help prevent heart attack or stroke. This medication lowers your "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides (a type of fat) levels. It can also raise your "good" cholesterol (HDL). Follow a heart-healthy diet and get regular exercise while you're taking lovastatin so the medication can work as best as possible. Lovastatin side effects include stomach upset and headache.

Indications for Lovastatin

Pros and Cons for Lovastatin

Pros

  • Helps lower "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides (fats) and improve "good" cholesterol (HDL) levels
  • Lowers the risk of problems caused by high cholesterol, like heart attack or stroke, in people with certain conditions (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure)
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Doesn't replace having a balanced diet and regular exercise routine to lower cholesterol levels
  • Has more dosing limits for certain drug interactions than some other statins
  • Not safe to use if you're pregnant or breastfeeding

Common Side Effects for Lovastatin

  • Gas (4-5%)
  • Constipation (2-4%)
  • Nausea (2-3%)
  • Stomach pain (2-3%)
  • Muscle pain (2-3%)
  • Headache (2-3%)

Warnings for Lovastatin

  • Severe muscle pain and damage
  • Liver problems
  • Higher blood sugar levels
  • Possible harm during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Summary for Atorvastatin

Prescription only

Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a statin that helps lower cholesterol. As a moderate-to-high-intensity statin, it can lower cholesterol by a greater amount than many other statins. It can also help protect your heart health. The dosage is taken by mouth once a day. Atorvastatin tablets are available as brand-name Lipitor and a generic. There's also a liquid form that only comes as brand name Atorvaliq. It's possible to have side effects like muscle pain, joint pain, and stomach upset. Most times, atorvastatin (Lipitor) is taken along with a heart-healthy diet to get the most benefits from treatment.

Indications for Atorvastatin

Pros and Cons for Atorvastatin

Pros

  • Can lower cholesterol by more than 50% at higher doses
  • Taken just once a day
  • Approved for children as young as 10 years old with genetic cholesterol problems
  • Also available as a liquid (Atorvaliq) for those who have trouble swallowing pills

Cons

  • Can't take if you have liver problems
  • Higher risk of side effects for some people, like older adults and people who drink alcohol daily
  • Risk of a serious muscle problem called rhabdomyolysis
  • Not recommended while pregnant or breastfeeding

Common Side Effects for Atorvastatin

Warnings for Atorvastatin

  • Severe muscle pain and damage
  • Liver problems
  • Higher blood sugar levels
  • Possible higher risk of brain bleed in certain people taking the 80 mg dose
  • Possible risk of harm when taken while pregnant or breastfeeding

Prices with our coupons for Lovastatin vs. Atorvastatin

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Lovastatin30 tablets / 10mg
$10.53$22.38
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Atorvastatin30 tablets / 40mg
$9.73$15.56
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