What is the brand name for Lovastatin?
The brand name for Lovastatin is Mevacor.
PTCE Top 200 · #132
Lovastatin
Mevacor
Lovastatin is the generic name for the brand-name drug Mevacor. It is a statin (hmg-coa reductase inhibitor) used to treat high cholesterol. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Lovastatin ranks #132 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Lovastatin |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Mevacor |
| Drug class | Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | high cholesterol |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Lovastatin used for?
Adjunct to diet for primary hypercholesterolemia; reduction of cardiovascular risk in appropriate patients.
What drug class is Lovastatin?
Lovastatin is a Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Lovastatin
- arrow_rightMuscle pain (myalgia)
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightAbdominal pain
- arrow_rightConstipation/diarrhea
- arrow_rightElevated liver enzymes
Major interactions
- arrow_rightStrong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin, HIV protease inhibitors) → ↑ lovastatin, rhabdomyolysis risk (avoid/contraindicated)
- arrow_rightGrapefruit juice → ↑ levels/myopathy risk
- arrow_rightGemfibrozil/niacin → ↑ myopathy risk
- arrow_rightWarfarin → may increase INR (monitor)
Is Lovastatin a controlled substance?
No. Lovastatin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Lovastatin (PTCE mnemonic)
MEVA-cor LOVes lipids down — lova-STATIN is CYP3A4-metabolized. Take with EVENING MEAL; muscle aches + LFTs; NO grapefruit, NO strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.
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PTCE exam tip
Lovastatin is the 'take with the evening meal' statin with strong CYP3A4/grapefruit interactions — like simvastatin, timing and interactions are its exam identity.
Lovastatin FAQ
What is Lovastatin used for?
Lovastatin is used to treat high cholesterol. Adjunct to diet for primary hypercholesterolemia; reduction of cardiovascular risk in appropriate patients.
What drug class is Lovastatin?
Lovastatin is a Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) (Cardiovascular group).
Is Lovastatin a controlled substance?
No. Lovastatin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Lovastatin the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).