A fungal metabolite isolated from cultures of Aspergillus terreus. The compound is a potent anticholesteremic agent. It inhibits 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA reductases), which is the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis. It also stimulates the production of low-density lipoprotein receptors in the liver.
A drug used to lower serum cholesterol levels.
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor that reduces blood cholesterol levels.
Oral agent indicated for the reduction of elevated blood cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia) when the response to diet has been inadequate. Adverse effects include liver abnormalities and muscle aches.
A cholesterol-lowering drug. Lovastatin (Mevacor, Mevinolin) is used together with diet to treat people with primary hypercholesterolemia, or too much cholesterol. Lovastatin is also used to slow hardening of the arteries in people with coronary heart disease.