Warning: On August 8, 2001, Bayer Pharmaceutical Division
voluntarily withdrew Baycol (cerivastatin) from the U.S. market because of reports of
sometimes fatal rhabdomyolysis, a severe muscle adverse reaction from this
cholesterol-lowering (lipid-lowering) product. Bayer is taking similar action in all other
countries except Japan.
Cerivastatin is used to lower elevated blood
cholesterol and triglyceride levels when
low-fat diets and lifestyle changes are ineffective. It
is in a family of drugs known as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.
Safetychecker Summary
for Cerivastatin
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)
 May be Beneficial: Depletion or
interference—The medication may deplete or interfere with the absorption or
function of the nutrient. Taking these nutrients may help replenish them. |
Niacin (enhancement)
|
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known
|
| Supportive interaction |
None known
|
| Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability |
None known
|
| Adverse interaction |
None known
|
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Niacin
Some sources have reported that taking niacin together with other HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors
may result in serious muscle damage.1 However, niacin has also been used
successfully in combination with these drugs without ill effects. Persons taking cerivastatin
or any other HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor should consult with their doctor before taking
niacin.
References:
1. Sifton DW, et. Physicians’ Desk Reference. Montvale,
NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 675–7.
Copyright © 2002 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights
reserved. www.healthnotes.com
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Safetychecker.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational
purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro),
clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may
not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or
before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2003.
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