What is Livalo used for?
Livalo is used to treat hyperlipidemia, which is elevated levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Livalo lowers triglycerides (fats) and LDL (bad) cholesterol while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. Livalo works by reducing the amount of LDL cholesterol made by the liver.Livalo (Pitavastatin) Information
What is Livalo?
Livalo is a statin used to lower blood cholesterol. Another brand name for Livalo is Alipza (Brand name used in some countries such as Turkey).
The generic name for Livalo is Pitavastatin.
Livalo is available as a tablet in the strengths 1mg, 2mg and 4mg.
How to take Livalo?
Livalo is taken by mouth once daily with or without food. It is best to take Livalo every day at the same time each day. Your doctor will decide the right dosage for you.
Possible side effects of Livalo?
Some side effects of Livalo are joint pain, muscle pain, diarrhea, constipation, headache, flu symptoms, and skin rash.
In rare cases, Livalo can cause a serious muscle condition called rhabdomyolysis. Let your doctor know right away if you experience persistent muscle pain/weakness/tenderness, especially with fever.
In rare cases, Livalo can cause liver damage. Let your doctor know right away if you experience nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin/eyes.
This is not a complete list of side effects for Livalo. If you experience any other effects let your doctor or pharmacist know.
Possible Drug Interactions with Livalo?
Some drugs that interact with Livalo are gemfibrozil, colchicine, cyclosporine, and some antibiotics such as erythromycin, Rifampin, niacin, and fibrates.
Red yeast rice products should be avoided when taking Livalo because they contain a statin called lovastatin which when taken with Livalo can increase the risk of serious liver and muscle problems.
This is not a complete list of drugs that interact with Livalo. Always let your doctor or pharmacist know the list of all the drugs you are taking, including herbal drugs so they can check for any possible interactions.
What is the recommended dosage for Livalo (Pitavastatin)?
The recommended dosage of Livalo (Pitavastatin) for adults varies depending on individual cholesterol levels and how they respond to the medication. Typically, the starting dose ranges from 1 mg to 2 mg taken once daily, and it can be taken with or without food. Based on the patient's response, the dosage may be increased up to a maximum of 4 mg per day. Adjustments are usually made to meet the patient’s cholesterol goals, and further modifications might be necessary for individuals with kidney problems or those taking other medications that could interact with Livalo.
It is important to follow a doctor's specific recommendations for the most appropriate dosage.
Livalo Price in Canada
Livalo isn't available at the Canadian Pharmacy currently. It's also known as Alipza 2mg and available from Turkey at affordable cost.
- 30 tabs - $42.99 USD ($1.43 per tabs)
- 60 tabs - $69.20 USD ($1.15 per tabs)
- 90 tabs - $98.60 USD ($1.10 per tabs)
Generic Pitavastatin Price in Canada
Starting price of Pitavastatin 1mg (Generic Equivalent to Livalo) price in Canada
- 100 tabs - $56.69 USD ($0.57 per tabs)
Livalo (Pitavastatin) FAQs
Does Livalo lower cholesterol and triglycerides?
Yes, Livalo (pitavastatin) helps lower cholesterol and triglycerides. It reduces "bad" LDL cholesterol and increases "good" HDL cholesterol, while also lowering triglycerides, which are fats in your blood.
Can Livalo prevent heart attacks or strokes?
Livalo (pitavastatin) is not directly used to prevent heart attacks or strokes. However, it lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and helps reduce the risk of heart problems. By lowering cholesterol, it can help prevent heart attacks and strokes in people with high cholesterol or other risk factors, but it’s not a guarantee.
How long does it take for Livalo to work?
Livalo (pitavastatin) starts to work within about 1 to 2 weeks. However, it may take up to 4 weeks to see the full effect on your cholesterol levels. Your doctor may check your cholesterol levels after this time to see how well it's working for you.
Can I take Livalo with other cholesterol medications?
Generally taking Livalo (pitavastatin) with other cholesterol medications considered to be safe, but you should only do so under your doctor's supervision. Combining cholesterol medications may increase the risk of side effects, so it's important for your doctor to monitor you closely to ensure the combination is safe and effective for your situation.
Does Livalo interact with blood pressure medications?
Livalo (pitavastatin) is not known to have significant interactions with blood pressure medications. However, it’s always best to consult your doctor or pharmacist to make sure it's safe to take them together, especially if you're on multiple medications.
How often should I have my cholesterol checked while on Livalo?
While on Livalo (pitavastatin), you should generally have your cholesterol checked every 3 to 12 months. Your doctor will determine the best schedule based on your health and treatment goals.