by Gabrielle Schrader

Created on: April 11, 2011   Last Updated: April 12, 2011

Crestor is the brand name for a medication known as Rosuvastatin. It is often used to help its users achieve specific changes in their life related to diet and weight-loss. It is often prescribed so that cholesterol can be lowered. In fact, it works by quite literally slowing down the production of cholesterol in the body. Without as much cholesterol buildup, patients are less likely to get heart disease, chest pains, heart attacks or strokes. Of course, it is recommended that a healthy diet is also a part of the treatment as well as the daily thirty minutes of exercise.

One thing people often forget to check however, are the side effects of Crestor. Although the medication can be very helpful it can also be dangerous if not taken with precaution. Before taking this medication, one should consult with his or her doctor. It is important to let the doctor know whether or not you take any other vitamins or supplements. It is also important to talk to your doctor more in-depth about this particular medication if you take aluminum. It is said that aluminum should be taken two hours after an individual takes Crestor. It is also important to let your doctor know if you have any liver conditions. If you do, he or she will be very hesitant to put you on this particular medication. It is also important to remember that you should let doctors know before any kind of surgery (regardless of how minor it may be) that you are on Crestor or on Rosuvastatin. 

The list of side effects associated with Rosuvastatin are as follows: constipation, heart burn, dizzy feelings, coughing, joint pain, depression, difficulty falling or staying asleep and muscle pain. Unfortunately Crestor has even more dangerous side effects. An individual taking Crestor can be subjected to fever, chest pain, skin changing colors to a more "yellowy" color, stomach pain, nausea, rashes, bleeding, poor appetites, itching, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the eyes, and numbness. If you or someone you know experience any of these more serious reactions then call your doctor immediately. This is not a healthy response and is something that should be taken care of as fast as possible.

In the event that it is an extremely dangerous thing make sure to call: 911 (for emergency response) or 1-800-222-1222 (poison control). Hopefully this article has educated you about the side effects of Crestor as well as what it is primarily used for. Make sure you make educated decisions when dealing with this medication.

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