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Zypitamag

pitavastatin magnesium
Used for Coronary Artery Disease, High Cholesterol
Used for Coronary Artery Disease, High Cholesterol

Zypitamag, the brand name for pitavastatin magnesium, is a moderate-intensity statin. It lowers "bad" cholesterol in adults. Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) is a tablet that's taken by mouth once per day at any time of day. Side effects include muscle pain, back pain, and constipation. To get the most out of treatment, follow a heart-healthy diet while taking this medication.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
Last reviewed on March 5, 2025
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)?

What is Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) used for?

How Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) works

Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) is a statin. The main way it works is by blocking a protein) in the liver that makes cholesterol. By blocking this protein, Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) affects different types of cholesterol and fats in the body.

Are you looking for information on pitavastatin calcium (Livalo) or pravastatin instead?
When does Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsZypitamag
Drug ClassStatin
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Back pain (up to 4%)
  • Constipation (up to 4%)
  • Muscle pain (up to 3%)
  • Diarrhea (up to 3%)
  • Pain in arm or leg (up to 2%)

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis): severe muscle weakness or pain, dark brown urine, fever, extreme tiredness
  • Liver problems: swelling of your stomach, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, dark or brown urine, confusion
When do Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Risk of muscle pain
Risk of back pain
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

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The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Difficulty with moving

joint pain

muscle ache, cramp, pain, or stiffness

pain in the arms and legs

swollen joints

Incidence not known

Chills

clay-colored stools

cough

dark urine

diarrhea

difficulty breathing

dizziness

fever

general feeling of discomfort or illness

headache

hives or welts, itching skin, or rash

loss of appetite

muscle spasm

nausea

runny nose

shivering

sore throat

stomach pain

sweating

trouble sleeping

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

vomiting of blood

yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common

Back pain

difficulty having a bowel movement

Incidence not known

Burning, numbness, tingling, or painful sensations

decreased interest in sexual intercourse

discouragement

feeling sad or empty

inability to have or keep an erection

irritability

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

loss of interest or pleasure

loss of memory

problems with memory

redness of the skin

trouble concentrating

unsteadiness or awkwardness

weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)

thumbs-up

Pros

Generally lowers "bad" cholesterol (LDL) by about 30% to 49%

Taken once per day with or without food

thumbs-down

Cons

Not approved for children with a genetic condition that causes high cholesterol

Can't crush the tablets, so might not be a good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills whole

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)

pharmacist

  • Mark your calendar for any blood work that you need to get while taking Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium). These blood tests check your cholesterol levels to see how well the medication is working. They also check your liver health to make sure it's still safe for you to take.

    • Take Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) once a day at a time that's convenient for you. It's best to take the medication at around the same time every day to help make it a part of your daily routine. This can help you remember to take your medication.

      • You can take Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) with or without food. Sometimes, the medication can hurt your stomach. If this happens, you can try taking it with food next time to help.

        • Swallow the Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) tablets whole. Don't cut, crush, or chew them. Talk to your prescriber if you have trouble swallowing the tablets whole.

          • Tell your prescriber if you have muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. This can be a side effect of Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium), and your care team can help manage it. But get medical help right away if you also have dark-colored urine or fever. These might be signs of rhabdomyolysis (serious muscle breakdown).

            • Limit how much alcohol you drink while taking Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium). Drinking alcohol with this medication can raise your risk of muscle pain and serious liver problems. Talk to your prescriber about how much you drink and what steps to take to stay safe during treatment.

              • Continue to follow a healthy, balanced diet and regularly exercise while taking Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium). This helps you get the most benefit out of your treatment. Talk with your care team about meal planning and the types of exercise that are right for you.

                More on Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) tips

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                Written by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)

                Is Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) a statin?
                Yes, Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) is a statin. It helps lower the amount of "bad" cholesterol in the blood.
                Is Zypitamag the same as Livalo?
                No. Zypitamag and Livalo are brand-name medications with the same active ingredient, pitavastatin. But they're different forms of pitavastatin. Zypitamag is pitavastatin magnesium, while Livalo is pitavastatin calcium. Both treat adults with high cholesterol. Livalo has a generic version available, but Zypitamag is brand name only. So, the form of pitavastatin you take might depend on your prescriber's preference and insurance coverage. Talk to your prescriber about the differences between Zypitamag and Livalo.
                What's the difference between Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) and atorvastatin (Lipitor)?
                Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) and atorvastatin (Lipitor) are both statins with many similarities. But the main difference is how well they lower cholesterol. In general, atorvastatin (Lipitor) can lower cholesterol levels more than Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium). This is why atorvastatin (Lipitor) is a "moderate-to-high intensity" statin and Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) is a "moderate intensity" statin. Your prescriber will choose which statin is best for you based on factors like your cholesterol levels. Talk to your prescriber to compare these medications.
                What are the most common side effects of Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)?
                Side effects from Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) aren't common, but some might happen. Like all statins, it can cause muscle pain. This is more likely to happen after your dose gets raised or when you take another medication that interacts with Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium). Constipation is another possible side effect. Try to drink more water and eat fiber-rich foods to prevent getting constipated. Talk to your prescriber if any side effects bother you. They can recommend ways to manage them.
                Does Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) cause hair loss?
                Hair loss isn't usually a side effect of Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium). Talk to your prescriber if you notice changes in your hair thickness or growth after starting this medication. Your care team can help you figure out if Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) or something else is causing the hair loss.
                Can you take Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) during pregnancy?
                Let your prescriber know if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) usually isn't recommended. This is because the medication can harm an unborn baby. But your prescriber will consider the risks of high cholesterol and the benefits of treatment to decide if you should keep taking the medication or switch to a safer option.
                Can you take Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) while breastfeeding?
                It's generally not recommended to take Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) while breastfeeding. There isn't much information on whether the medication is found in breast milk. We also don't know whether it's safe for your baby if it is. Talk to your prescriber or a lactation specialist about the risks and benefits. They can help you find a safe option.
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                What are the risks and warnings for Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)?

                Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Severe muscle pain and damage

                • Risk factors: Ages 65 years and older | Hypothyroidism that's not well-controlled | Kidney problems | Taking a higher dose of Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) | Taking other medications that can also cause muscle problems or interact with Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)

                  Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) can cause muscle pain, tenderness, and weakness. Rarely, it can cause rhabdomyolysis. This is a serious and life-threatening condition that can lead to kidney damage. You're at higher risk if you take other medications that cause muscle damage or interact with Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium).

                  Although rare, statins like Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) can cause immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM). This is an autoimmune condition that causes muscle inflammation and muscle weakness. It might continue even after stopping the medication. You'll need to take other medications to treat IMNM.

                  Let your care team know if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. And get medical help right away if you have severe muscle pain, dark-colored urine, or extreme tiredness. These can be signs of rhabdomyolysis. Depending on your symptoms, you might need to stop taking Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium).

                  risk-warning

                  Liver problems

                  • Risk factors: History of liver problems | Drinking large amounts of alcohol

                    Some people who took Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) had elevated liver enzyme levels. This could be a sign of damage to the liver. Most times, this happens soon after starting the medication. But it's usually temporary and doesn't cause symptoms. Rarely, liver failure that's sometimes life-threatening has happened.

                    Before starting Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium), you might need a blood test to check your liver health. People with liver failure or severe liver cirrhosis shouldn't take this medication. You might also need regular blood tests during treatment to make sure it's still safe to take.

                    Get medical help right away if you have yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe stomach pain, dark or bloody stools, or dark urine. These could be signs of liver damage. You might need to stop taking Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) to prevent more harm to the liver.

                    risk-warning

                    Higher blood sugar levels

                    • Risk factors: High blood sugar

                      Some research suggests that statins like Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) might raise blood sugar levels. This could lead to higher hemoglobin A1C levels (average blood sugar over 3 months). But healthcare professionals believe that the benefits of statins outweigh this risk.

                      Tell your prescriber if you have diabetes or high blood sugar before you start Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium). You might need to check your blood sugar more often. Also, follow a healthy, balanced diet and get regular exercise while you're taking Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium).

                      risk-warning

                      Possible risk of harm during pregnancy or breastfeeding

                      Stop taking Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) and tell your prescriber if you're pregnant. This medication isn't recommended during pregnancy unless the benefits are greater than the risks. Statins might harm an unborn baby. Talk to your prescriber about safe treatment options if you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant.

                      Breastfeeding is also not recommended while you're taking Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium). Some statins can get into breast milk and might harm the baby. Talk to your prescriber or a lactation consultant about safe feeding options.

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                      dosage

                      Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) dosage forms

                      The average cost for 30 tablets of 2mg of Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) is $91.95 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 67.1% off the average retail price of $279.52.
                      tablet
                      Tablet
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      1mg30 tablets$266.64$8.89
                      2mg30 tablets$91.95$3.06
                      4mg30 tablets$91.95$3.06

                      Typical dosing for Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)

                      The typical dose is 2 mg to 4 mg by mouth once a day.

                      Your dose might be different if you have kidney problems. Your dose will also differ if you're taking erythromycin or rifampin because of drug interactions.

                      interactions

                      Interactions between Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) and other drugs

                      Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

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                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                      • Eltrombopag
                      • Fostemsavir
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                      contraindications-icon

                      Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) contraindications

                      Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium) will not be safe for you to take.
                      alternatives

                      What are alternatives to Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)?

                      There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                      Zypitamag (pitavastatin magnesium)
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                      Simvastatin (Zocor)
                      Used for:
                      $12.60 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Pravastatin
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                      $14.40 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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                      References

                      Best studies we found

                      Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). (2023). Pitavastatin. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

                      Grundy, S. M., et al. (2018). 2018 AHA/ACC/AACVPR/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/ADA/AGS/APhA/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline on the management of blood cholesterol: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Circulation.

                      Gupta, D., et al. (2018). Salts of therapeutic agents: Chemical, physicochemical, and biological considerations. Molecules.

                      View All References (4)

                      McTaggart, F., et al. (2008). Effects of statins on high-density lipoproteins: A potential contribution to cardiovascular benefit. Cardiovascular Drugs and Therapy.

                      Medicure International Inc. (2025). Zypitamag- pitavastatin magnesium tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                      Newman, C. B., et al. (2018). Statin safety and associated adverse events: A Scientific Statement from the American Heart Association. Atherosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology.

                      Stroie, O. P., et al. (2020). Statin-induced immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy: An increasingly recognized inflammatory myopathy. Cureus.

                      GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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