Usage of PITAVAS PLUS
-
Primary hypercholesterolemia not adequately controlled by statin alone
-
Familial hypercholesterolemia (heterozygous type)
-
Mixed dyslipidemia with high LDL-C and borderline triglycerides
-
Statin-sparing strategy in patients prone to statin-induced muscle symptoms
-
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk reduction when intensified LDL-C control is needed
Common Side Effects
-
Headache
-
Diarrhea or abdominal discomfort
-
Myalgia or muscle cramps
-
Elevated liver enzymes (usually transient)
-
Rare: Rhabdomyolysis, hypersensitivity reactions
Note: The combination is generally well tolerated and muscle-related side effects are less frequent with Pitavastatin than with other statins.
Precautions
-
Liver dysfunction: Monitor liver enzymes before and during therapy
-
Muscle symptoms: Check creatine kinase (CK) if unexplained pain or weakness develops
-
Avoid in pregnancy and lactation – Category X
-
Use with caution in elderly patients or those with renal impairment
-
In moderate hepatic impairment, monitor closely
-
Ezetimibe should not be used in moderate to severe liver disease
Drug Interactions
-
Bile acid sequestrants: Can reduce Ezetimibe absorption – separate dosing by ≥4 hours
-
Cyclosporine: May increase systemic exposure of both components
-
Fibrates (especially gemfibrozil): Risk of gallstones and myopathy
-
Warfarin: Monitor INR when Ezetimibe is added
-
Minimal CYP450 involvement – Pitavastatin is safer in polypharmacy settings
Dosage and Administration
-
Once daily, preferably in the evening
-
Can be taken with or without food
-
Regular monitoring of lipid profile, LFTs, and CK (if symptomatic) recommended
Storage
-
Store in a cool, dry place, below 25°C
-
Protect from light and moisture
Patient Counselling Tips
-
Stress the importance of adherence, even when lipid levels improve
-
Report muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness immediately
-
Encourage low-fat diet and exercise to enhance lipid control
-
Avoid alcohol to reduce liver-related risks
-
Discuss all other medications and supplements to avoid interactions




