Managing My Cholesterol
In addition to taking LIVALO®, it is very important to consider the effect that diet and physical activity can have on lowering your cholesterol.
To make this goal easier, and to sort through the confusion, LIVALO has provided you with sections on making healthier eating choices and establishing a regular exercise routine. Highlighted on these pages are helpful and healthy facts to consider, cholesterol-smart choices to make, and tips for sticking to a realistic exercise routine. Always talk to your doctor before starting or changing any exercise program.
As you consider these changes to your lifestyle, remember to start small. Adjustments to your diet, no matter how minor, may be beneficial. In order to stick to your exercise routine, start slowly and try to work more physical activity into your daily schedule, making it a natural part of your day. And, as always, remember to talk to your doctor before starting or changing any exercise program.
With diet as well as exercise, consistency plays a big role. Developing heart-healthy habits that you can stick to over time is important, and may help to keep your cholesterol at a healthy level.
Important Safety Information for LIVALO® (pitavastatin) Tablets
Who should NOT take LIVALO?
LIVALO is not right for everyone, including:
- Those who have had an allergic reaction to LIVALO
- Anyone with active liver disease
- Women who are nursing, pregnant, or who may become pregnant
- Anyone currently taking cyclosporine
What should I talk to my doctor about?
- If you take LIVALO, tell your doctor right away if you experience any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by fever or a general feeling of discomfort. This could be a sign of a rare but serious side effect.
- Your doctor should do blood tests to monitor your liver function before starting LIVALO, and then at 12 weeks following the start of LIVALO, after any increase in dose, and periodically (e.g., every 6 months) thereafter.
- Please talk to your doctor about your alcohol use.
- Tell your doctor about all the medications you take including nonprescription medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
What are the most common side effects of LIVALO?
The most common side effects of LIVALO in clinical studies were:
- Back pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Muscle pain
- Pain in the legs or arms
This is not a complete list of side effects.
Other Important Information about LIVALO
- LIVALO has not been studied to evaluate its effect on reducing heart-related disease or death.
- LIVALO is available by prescription only.
Please see Full Prescribing Information.
PS73370 LIV-RA-0032 8/2011
What else should I know about LIVALO?
- LIVALO can be taken with or without food. It’s even okay to continue drinking grapefruit juice.
- LIVALO is available in 1-mg, 2-mg, and 4-mg doses.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA.
Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.