Rosuvastatin: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Rosuvastatin is a potent statin for lowering cholesterol. It belongs to the Statin / lipid-lowering group. These lower cholesterol to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Statin / lipid-lowering
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

High LDL ("bad") cholesterol
Lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke
Inherited high cholesterol

Common brand names

India: Rosuvas, Rozavel, Crevast
Worldwide: Crestor

Common side effects

Muscle aches
Headache
Tummy pain or constipation
Weakness

Before taking it — precautions

Not to be used in pregnancy or breastfeeding
People of Asian origin may need a lower starting dose
Tell your doctor about kidney or liver disease, alcohol use or other medicines

When to see a doctor urgently

Unexplained muscle pain or weakness with dark urine (rare — seek advice)
Yellow eyes or skin, or severe tummy pain
Swelling of the face or throat (rare — urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of rosuvastatin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Is rosuvastatin stronger than other statins?

It is one of the most potent statins for lowering LDL cholesterol, so smaller doses can have a big effect.

Can I take rosuvastatin at any time of day?

Yes — it lasts long in the body, so it can be taken morning or evening, as long as it's the same time each day.

Do muscle aches mean I should stop?

Mild aches are common and often unrelated, but unexplained muscle pain or weakness should be reported to your doctor.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.