The primary trade name for lovastatin is Mevacor [1].
What other brand names has lovastatin been sold under?
Lovastatin has also been marketed under other brand names, including Alipza and Altocor [2].
Can I still buy Mevacor?
Mevacor is a brand name for lovastatin, a prescription medication used to lower cholesterol and triglycerides. As of recent information, Mevacor is available in the United States [1].
How does lovastatin work to lower cholesterol?
Lovastatin is a statin medication that works by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver called HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme is essential for the production of cholesterol. By blocking HMG-CoA reductase, lovastatin reduces the amount of cholesterol synthesized by the body, leading to lower levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglycerides, and sometimes an increase in HDL ("good") cholesterol [3].
When does the patent for Mevacor expire?
The original patents for lovastatin have long since expired, allowing for the production of generic versions [4]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent information for pharmaceuticals [5].
Who manufactures generic lovastatin?
With the expiration of original patents, multiple pharmaceutical companies manufacture generic versions of lovastatin. These generic formulations are typically available at a lower cost than the brand-name Mevacor [4].