AstraZeneca manufactures Crestor medication [1].
What is Crestor used for?
Crestor, also known by its generic name rosuvastatin, is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels [2]. It is prescribed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke in individuals with high cholesterol or other risk factors [2].
How does Crestor work?
Crestor works by inhibiting a key enzyme in the liver, HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme is responsible for producing cholesterol. By blocking this enzyme, Crestor reduces the amount of cholesterol the liver makes, leading to lower levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglycerides, and an increase in HDL ("good") cholesterol [3].
When did Crestor's patent expire?
The primary patent for Crestor expired in the United States in 2016 [4]. Patent expiry allows for the introduction of generic versions of the medication.
Can I get generic Crestor?
Yes, generic versions of Crestor, containing the active ingredient rosuvastatin, are available [5]. These generic alternatives are typically less expensive than the brand-name Crestor.
Who are Crestor's competitors?
Other statin medications, such as Lipitor (atorvastatin), Zocor (simvastatin), and Pravachol (pravastatin), are competitors to Crestor [6]. Additionally, other classes of cholesterol-lowering drugs, including PCSK9 inhibitors, also compete in the market for managing high cholesterol.
What are the potential side effects of Crestor?
Common side effects of Crestor can include muscle pain, nausea, abdominal pain, and weakness [7]. More serious but rare side effects can involve severe muscle problems like rhabdomyolysis, liver damage, and an increased risk of diabetes [7]. Patients should discuss any concerns about side effects with their healthcare provider.
Where can I find more information on drug patents?
For detailed information on drug patents, including those for Crestor and other medications, DrugPatentWatch.com is a valuable resource [1].
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**Sources
1. "Who makes Crestor medication." DrugPatentWatch.com.
2. "Crestor (rosuvastatin calcium)." U.S. Food & Drug Administration.
3. "Rosuvastatin." National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information.
4. "Crestor patent expiration." DrugPatentWatch.com.
5. "Rosuvastatin." MedlinePlus.
6. "Cholesterol Medications." National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
7. "Crestor Side Effects." Mayo Clinic.