Key takeaways
Lovastatin (Mevacor) and rosuvastatin (Crestor, Ezallor Sprinkle) are both statins used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. They work by blocking a protein in the liver that makes cholesterol. However, there are several differences between these medications. Lovastatin is a low-to-moderate intensity statin, typically taken once or twice a day with food, while rosuvastatin is a moderate-to-high intensity statin taken once daily, with or without food. Rosuvastatin is available in both generic and brand forms, including a brand sprinkle capsule for those who have trouble swallowing pills, whereas lovastatin is only available as a generic tablet. Common lovastatin side effects include stomach upset and headache, while rosuvastatin may cause muscle pain, joint pain, and headache. Both medications can cause serious muscle problems like rhabdomyolysis, but rosuvastatin has a higher reported incidence of muscle pain. Additionally, rosuvastatin may interact with antacids, requiring a two-hour gap between doses, while lovastatin should not be taken with grapefruit juice. Both medications are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
