Introduction

Divastin 20 belongs to a group of medicines called statins. It is used to lower cholesterol and to reduce the risk of heart disease. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that builds up in your blood vessels and causes narrowing, which may lead to a heart attack or stroke. Divastin 20 is a widely prescribed medicine and is regarded as safe for long-term use when taken as per doctor's advice. It can be taken with a meal or on an empty stomach. You can take it at any time of the day but try to take it at the same time each day. Most people with high cholesterol do not feel ill, but stopping your medicine may increase your cholesterol levels, making your condition worse and increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke. It is important to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly. This medicine is only one part of the treatment program which should also include a healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, moderation of alcohol intake and weight reduction. You can eat normally while taking this medicine, but try to avoid foods that are high in fat. Common side effects of this medicine include headache, constipation, muscle pain, nausea, indigestion, diarrhea and nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages). These are usually mild and disappear after a short time. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you notice any yellowing of your eyes or get repeated or unexplained muscle pains. This medicine should not be used in some conditions such as liver disease. Also, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should not take this medicine as it may harm the developing baby. Diabetic patients should monitor their blood sugar levels while taking this medicine, as it may lead to an increase in blood sugar levels. Your doctor may check your liver function before starting the treatment and monitor it regularly thereafter.

Uses of Divastin 20

• High cholesterol
• Prevention of heart attack

Side effects of Divastin 20

• Constipation
• Headache
• Muscle pain

How to use Divastin 20

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Divastin 20 may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.

How Divastin 20 works

Divastin 20 is a lipid-lowering medication (statin). It works by blocking an enzyme (HMG-CoA-reductase) that is required in the body to make cholesterol. It thus lowers "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, raising the level of "good" cholesterol (HDL).

What if you forget to take Divastin 20?

If you miss a dose of Divastin 20, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses within 12 hour.