 HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors refer to a class of medicines used to treat high cholesterol. Called "the statins," medicines in this class include atorvastatin (brand name Lipitor), fluvastatin (>Lescol), lovastatin (>Mevacor), pravastatin (>Pravachol), and simvastatin (>Zocor). The statins may interact with other drugs, leading to a build-up in the body of the statin or the other drug being used. This may result in frequent or severe side effects. Whether a drug interaction is likely to occur will depend in part on which statin you are taking. Drugs that are likely to interact with statins include antacids (Tums, Maalox), cyclosporine (Neoral), erythromycin (Ery-Tab, E.E.S.), gemfibrozil (Lopid), niacin (Niaspan), and warfarin (Coumadin). Consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice may also interfere with the body’s ability to eliminate certain statins, especially lovastatin (Mevacor) and simvastatin (Zocor), possibly increasing your risk of side effects. This interaction appears to be less significant with the other statins. If you are taking lovastatin or simvastatin you may consider other citrus juices like orange juice. Other juices don’t affect these medicines in this way. Tell your health care provider the names of all of the medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter and herbal medicines. Sources:
The Johns Hopkins Complete Home Encyclopedia of Drugs. Medletter Associates, Inc., 1998.
Drug Facts and Comparisons, Facts and Comparisons, 2001.
Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management, Applied Therapeutics, 2000.
Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach. Appleton & Lange, 1999.
Micromedex Healthcare Series. Micromedex Inc., 2001.
This answer prepared 8/10/01.
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