Rosuvastatin is used together with diet to lower blood levels of "bad" cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL), to increase levels of "good" cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL), and to lower triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood).

Rosuvastatin is also used to treat hereditary types of high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia): The heterozygous type (inherited from one parent) or the homozygous type (inherited from both parents).

For the heterozygous type, rosuvastatin can be used in children who are at least 8 years old. For the homozygous type, rosuvastatin can be used in children as young as 7 years old.

The Ezallor brand of rosuvastatin is for use only in adults.

Crestor is also used in adults to slow the progression of atherosclerosis (a build-up of plaque in blood vessels that can block blood flow).

Crestor is also used to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other complications in men 50 years and older or women 60 years and older who have coronary heart disease or other risk factors.

Rosuvastatin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not take rosuvastatin if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• liver disease; or
• if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Do not take rosuvastatin if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are taking rosuvastatin. Stop taking rosuvastatin and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

Do not breastfeed while you are taking rosuvastatin.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver problems;
• kidney disease;
• a thyroid disorder;
• a habit of drinking more than 2 alcoholic beverages per day;
• if you are of Asian descent; or
• if you are 65 or older.

Rosuvastatin can cause the breakdown of muscle tissue, which can lead to kidney failure. This happens more often in women, in older adults, or people who have kidney disease or poorly controlled hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).

People of Asian descent may absorb rosuvastatin at a higher rate than other people. Make sure your doctor knows if you are Asian. You may need a lower than normal starting dose.

Use Ezallor Sprinkle (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness;
• muscle weakness in your hips, shoulders, neck, and back;
• trouble lifting your arms, trouble climbing or standing;
• confusion, memory problems; or
• liver problems--upper stomach pain, tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common side effects may include:

• headache;
• weakness;
• muscle aches; or
• nausea, stomach pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Avoid eating foods high in fat or cholesterol, or rosuvastatin will not be as effective.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It can raise triglyceride levels and may increase your risk of liver damage.

Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb rosuvastatin. Avoid taking an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours after taking rosuvastatin.