How to Take Crestor: Side Effects, Dosage
Learn how to take Crestor as directed: dosing, side effects, muscle-related precautions, and monitoring tips.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
Support for Your Daily Wellness
We’re here to help you stay organized, informed, and in control of your routine.
Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Crestor
How to Take Crestor
The following information reflects FDA-approved prescribing information for Crestor (rosuvastatin). Always follow your prescriber's specific instructions:
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, general adult dose: Most adults start with 10 mg to 20 mg once daily. Some may use 5 mg for mild needs or 40 mg if very high‑intensity therapy is required, but your prescribed amount is the appropriate one for your situation.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, children 8–17 years: Typical doses range from 5 mg to 20 mg once daily, depending on age and treatment goals.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, when to take it: Once a day at the same time. Morning or evening is acceptable — choose a time you can consistently maintain.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, with or without food: You may take it with or without meals; food does not affect absorption.
- Swallow whole: Take the tablet with a sip of water. Do not crush or chew it.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next one. If so, skip the missed dose. Do not double up.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, avoid certain supplements: If you take antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, take Crestor at least 2 hours before them.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, alcohol: Avoid heavy alcohol use, which can increase the risk of liver-related side effects.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, consistency matters: The cholesterol‑lowering benefit builds over time with daily dosing.
Warnings Before Taking Crestor
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, avoid if you have active liver disease or unexplained persistent liver enzyme elevations.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, tell your doctor about pregnancy or plans to conceive, as rosuvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy and may cause fetal harm.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, discuss kidney issues, thyroid problems, or heavy alcohol use before starting, as these may increase the risk of muscle-related adverse effects.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, share all medicines and supplements to prevent interactions, particularly with drugs that increase rosuvastatin blood levels.
Crestor Side Effects
Common
mild
Muscle Aches or Weakness
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, rosuvastatin can cause muscle soreness, tenderness, or weakness (myopathy). In rare cases, serious muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis) can occur, which may lead to kidney damage. Contact your prescriber promptly if you experience unexplained muscle pain, weakness, or dark-colored urine.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
2–12 hours
Common
mild
Headache
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, some people notice a mild headache when starting rosuvastatin.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
1–6 hours
Common
mild
Abdominal Discomfort
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, you may experience stomach pain, bloating, or mild nausea, especially early in treatment.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
2–8 hours
Common
mild
Constipation
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, rosuvastatin can cause constipation or harder stools in some users.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
12–24 hours
Uncommon
mild
Elevated Liver Enzymes
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, blood tests may show mild increases in liver enzymes (transaminases). Your clinician will monitor liver function as appropriate. Contact your prescriber if you develop symptoms such as unusual fatigue, upper abdominal pain, or jaundice.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
No noticeable duration from a single dose
Common
mild
Joint Pain
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, some people report achy or stiff joints (arthralgia) during rosuvastatin therapy.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
4–12 hours
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Crestor
If You Forgot to Take Crestor
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose of Crestor, take it as soon as you remember. If it is already close to the time for your next dose, simply skip the missed dose and return to your usual schedule.
Do not double up to make up for a forgotten pill — taking extra does not improve cholesterol control and may increase the chance of side effects. If you find yourself missing doses often, consider setting a reminder or pairing it with a daily routine.
What If You Took Too Much Crestor
What If You Took Too Much Crestor (Accidentally)?
If more than the prescribed amount was taken, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away. For children or if a large amount was ingested, seek urgent medical care immediately.
Do not take any more Crestor until a clinician advises you.
- If symptoms such as severe or unusual muscle pain, weakness, or dark-colored urine (signs of rhabdomyolysis/muscle breakdown) occur, seek emergency medical care.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Crestor Cost
Crestor Cost With Insurance
With many insurance plans in the U.S., the cost of Crestor varies by plan tier. Generic rosuvastatin is typically covered at a lower tier than brand-name Crestor. Your actual pricing depends on your specific insurance formulary and pharmacy.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
How Much Does Crestor Cost without Insurance
Crestor Cost Without Insurance
The price can vary by pharmacy, dose, and whether you choose brand‑name or generic rosuvastatin. Generic rosuvastatin is typically far more affordable than brand‑name Crestor. Discount cards and pharmacy savings programs can often lower the price of the generic further, though costs depend on location and availability.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
Resources:
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/021366s040lbl.pdf
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603033.html
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/rosuvastatin/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/rosuvastatin-oral-route/description/drg-20065889
https://www.drugs.com/crestor.html
