Pitavastatin is used in the treatment of increased cholesterol and increased triglycerides.

Pitavastatin is a lipid-lowering medication (statin). It works by blocking an enzyme (HMG-CoA-reductase) that is required in the body to make cholesterol. It thus lowers "bad" cholesterol (LDL), triglycerides and raises "good" cholesterol (HDL).

Headache, Stomach pain, Constipation, Feeling sick, Muscle pain, Weakness, Dizziness, Increased glucose level in blood

• Pitavastatin lowers "bad" cholesterol (LDL). It helps prevent heart attack and stroke.
• Pitavastatin prevents one death in every 50 patients with heart disease treated over 4 to 5 years.
• In general, Pitavastatin is safe. It may cause digestive problems like diarrhoea, gas. If any of these happen to you, take it with food.
• It is better to take in the evening.
• Notify your doctor if you are more tired than usual, do not feel hungry, or if you have yellow eyes, skin or dark urine.
• Notify your doctor if you experience muscle symptoms (pain or weakness), particularly if you have fever, a sick feeling or dark urine.
• Regular exercise and low-fat diet further help to lower levels of fat in the blood.

Ques. Q. Pitavastatin is superior to atorvastatin?
Pitavastatin and atorvastatin are different drugs belonging to the same class of HMG CoA reductase inhibitor (statins) and have the same mechanism of action. Their use in different conditions may vary depending upon individual response and therefore comparison between the two drugs cannot be drawn. Please follow your doctor's advice regarding their use.