Crestor: Asian-Americans at increased risk of serious side effect

In March 2005, a warning was added to the label of Crestor about the increased risk of serious muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis) in Asian-Americans. The new label also recommends a reduced starter dose — 5 milligrams a day — for Asian-Americans.

Rosuvastatin (Crestor) belongs to a class of cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins. As with all statins, some individuals who take Crestor will experience muscle side effects — most often mild muscle aches but rarely severe muscle damage. However, one clinical trial found that Asian-Americans taking Crestor had higher concentrations of the drug in their blood than did Caucasians taking the same dose. This increases the risk of muscle damage.

If you currently take Crestor and have concerns about potential side effects, consult your doctor. Also, if you take any statin medication and have new muscle aching or tenderness, see your doctor promptly.