Cerivastatin (Baycol) Drug for Cholesterol: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Cerivastatin
(Baycol, United States and Canada)

Use:

Cerivastatin or Baycol is indicated for lowering cholesterol and triglycerides.

How It Works:

Cerivastatin or Baycol is a "statin" drug, and like drugs of this group it inhibits the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. With this enzyme inhibited, cholesterol production in the body is reduced.

Side Effects:

Cerivastatin or Baycol seems to be well tolerated. Other "statins" have been associated with kidney problems, but not Cerivastatin or Baycol. In laboratory mice, the "statins" have been able to produce tumours, however in people there is no evidence of this effect.

Cautions for People:

Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not use Cerivastatin or Baycol, or any other "statin", because cholesterol is required for fetal and infant development.
People with kidney problems should be monitored closely when using Cerivastatin or Baycol.

Drug Interactions:

The antibiotic erythromycin can increase levels of Cerivastatin or Baycol, as can ketoconazole, itrazconazole, nefazodone, cyclosporine, and even grapefruit juice. Cholestyramine taken at the same time as Cerivastatin or Baycol can reduce its absorption.

Further Reading:

Medical Letter 1998;40(1018);13
Drug Topics 1997;Jul 21:26

Added to Virtual Drugstore May 1998.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.