Things You'll Need:
- Blood tests
- Physician
- Nutrition plan
- Exercise plan
- Mevacor
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Step 1
Visit your doctor for a physical exam, including a cholesterol test. This will measure your cholesterol levels to see whether you are a candidate for Mevacor. Mevacor is a prescription mediciation used by those who have levels of over 200 mg/dl and a history of heart disease.
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Step 2
Tell your doctor about other medications you are currently taking before you start treatment for high cholesterol. There may be some drugs that you cannot use at the same time.
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Step 3
Begin an exercise plan and continue to work out while you are taking Mevacor. Join a gym or take a brisk walk around the block several times a week. Medication will not treat high cholesterol effectively if you do not modify your lifestyle as well.
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Step 4
Eat a balanced diet that is high in fiber and low in saturated fats and cholesterol. Use fats sparingly in your cooking. If you need help in planning your meals, make an appointment with a nutritionist.
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Step 5
Take Mevacor with meals in order to benefit fully from its effectiveness.
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Step 6
Plan to take your cholesterol medication at the same time every day. If you forget a dose, take it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next pill. In that case, just take the next dose as planned.
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Step 7
Watch out for side effects that may occur when taking Mevacor. Most side effects are minor, such as indigestion, itching and a distorted sense of taste. Ask your doctor for ways to treat these symptoms.
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Step 8
Have your liver-enzyme function tested at regular intervals while taking Mevacor. There have been rare cases of liver damage stemming from statin use.
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Step 9
Alert your doctor immediately if you suffer from sudden muscle weakness combined with a fever. You will most likely be sent for blood tests to look for muscle damage and be taken off the medicine.
