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Chronic Care Heart Disease Management High Cholesterol Altoprev
Chronic Care ... Altoprev

Altoprev (lovastatin) prescription available online

If you are suffering from high cholesterol, high triglyceride levels, or are at risk of cardiovascular disease, Altoprev (lovastatin) can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Altoprev from a board-certified doctor online.*

Tailored plans to tackle hyperlipidemia Multiple FDA-approved uses Request Altoprev in as little as 15 minutes, with or without insurance*
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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
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About Altoprev

Altoprev is considered part of the drug class of HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (statins). Statins function by lowering blood cholesterol levels.

These cholesterol lowering medications work by blocking an enzyme in the liver that is needed to make low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. This leads to a reduction of the amount of LDL cholesterol in the blood, and in turn, decreases the amount of cholesterol that could build-up on artery walls. Statins also increase the liver’s ability to remove LDL cholesterol in the blood.

Some conditions that Altoprev is known to treat include reducing the risk of heart attack, reducing chest pain (angina) in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), and slowing the development of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with congestive heart disease. 

It also decreases levels of low density lipoproteins (LDL), Apo B, and triglycerides while increasing levels of high density lipoproteins (HDL). 

Altoprev is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including Mevacor and Altocor. 

Altoprev may be prescribed as oral tablets. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage that you are prescribed.

Altoprev uses

There are many FDA-approved uses for Altoprev, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your health care provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.

Hyperlipidemia

Along with other lipid lowering treatments such as diet, Altoprev is commonly prescribed in order to lower cholesterol levels. Specifically, Altoprev have been shown to reduce Total-C, LDL-C, Apo B, and triglyceride levels, and to increase HDL-C levels in patients during clinical trials.

Prevention of coronary heart disease

As Altoprev can increase HDL levels and reduce LDL levels, reduce plaque buildup in arteries, and improve blood flow to the heart, it has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease such as heart attack in people with coronary heart disease or other risk factors.

Specifically, in adult patients with high risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), Altoprev reduces the risk of:

  • Unstable angina

  • Myocardial infraction 

  • Coronary revascularization procedures

 

Further, Altoprev can also slow the development of coronary atherosclerosis.

Altoprev side effects

The side effects associated with taking Altoprev are typically rare. Most Altoprev adverse reactions are associated with skeletal, neurological, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Altoprev has some common adverse effects. They may include:

  • Infection

  • Accidental injury

  • Headache

  • Back pain

  • Pain

  • Diarrhea

  • Dizziness

  • Bladder pain

  • Muscle cramps

  • Joint pain

  • Frequent urination


Other adverse effects of Altoprev, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

  • Unexplained muscle pain

  • Autoimmune myopathy (immune mediated necrotizing myopathy)

  • Peripheral neuropathy, peripheral nerve palsy

  • Apparent hypersensitivity syndrome

  • Serious liver injury

  • Serious allergic reactions

  • Erectile dysfunction

  • Acute renal failure


You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms.

Use of Altoprev in pediatric patients under age 20 is not advised. Pediatric patients under age 20 are not likely to benefit with cholesterol lowering drugs.

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How to take Altoprev

Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Altoprev prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.

Altoprev can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. It is typically prescribed as 20-60 mg/day. Some specific instructions may include:

 

  • Lovastatin extended release tablets should be taken as a single dose in the evening at bedtime.

  • If prescribed, the regular tablet (not the extended release tablet) can be taken once or twice a day with meals.

 

Take the amount of medication as prescribed by your doctor. Severe renal impairment in elderly patients may occur if dosage increases above 20 mg/ day.

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What to avoid while taking Altoprev

Altoprev has some drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs. Some other medications that can interact with statins to cause unwanted or dangerous effects include:

 

  • HIV protease inhibitors

  • Other lipid lowering drugs, e.g., Lopid

  • Anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven)

  • Calcium channel blockers such as diltiazem (Cardizem)

  • Strong CYP3A inhibitors

 

This is not a complete list, call your doctor for other drugs that can interact with Altoprev.

There are a few things you should avoid while taking Altoprev, including:

 

  • Alcohol

  • Grapefruit juice or grapefruit

  • A high-fat diet

Medication alternatives

If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another HMG CoA reductase inhibitor,or a medication in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:

High cholesterol

Lipitor (atorvastatin) Crestor (rosuvastatin)
Lescol (fluvastatin)
Zocor (Simvastatin) Zetia (ezetimibe)
Pravachol (Pravastatin)

Lovastatin prescription FAQs

How much does Altoprev cost?

Lovastatin extended release tablets are available in different strengths 20 mg, 40 mg, and 60 mg.  30 tablets of Altoprev extended release tablets (20 mg) may be around $1,150.05 without insurance coverage. Generic formulations may offer a more affordable alternative. Our prescription discount card helps members save up to 80% on prescriptions.

How can I refill my Altoprev prescription?

Altoprev is only available by prescription, so you will need to see a board-certified doctor to get a refill on your prescription. To get started, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After a qualifying evaluation, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup.

Who should not take Altoprev?

Altoprev may not be for the following people:

  • Pregnant women

  • Lactating mothers

  • Pediatric patients

  • Patients with renal impairment

  • Patients with active liver disease (doctor will have to monitor liver enzymes before prescribing Altoprev)

  • Patients taking other statins

  • Patients with diabetes

  • Patients with hypothyroidism

Is there a generic for Altoprev?

Yes, lovastatin is the generic name of Altoprev.

Is Altoprev extended-release?

Yes, Altoprev is available as an extended-release tablet,

What happens if I miss a dose of Altoprev?

For lovastatin extended release tablets, take medication as soon as you realized the missed dose. If it is close to the time of your next dose, you can skip the missed dose. Don’t double dose in a single day. 

What happens if I take too much Altoprev?

Taking too much of this drug is unlikely to harm a healthy person. However, it may worsen the condition of patients with liver disease or kidney failure. Seek emergency medical attention and call your local poison control center immediately if you suspect an overdose.

3 simple steps to request your Altoprev prescription today

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Step 1

Book a Altoprev prescription request appointment.

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Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your Altoprev prescription.

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How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your Altoprev prescription.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Altoprev prescription pricing details

To get a new or refill on your Altoprev prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

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Paying without insurance

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Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.