Fluvastatin is a statin medication that lowers LDL cholesterol by inhibiting the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme in the liver. Its primary healthspan relevance is the robust, evidence-based reduction of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk, a leading cause of age-related mortality and morbidity. While pleiotropic effects like inflammation reduction are studied, its core longevity benefit is preventing heart attacks and strokes.
Verdict
A cornerstone for cardiovascular risk reduction, but requires medical supervision.
HEALTHSPAN IMPACT
High Value
RISK LEVEL
Moderate
EVIDENCE GRADE
A
MONTHLY COST
$10 - $40
Protocol
- Daily oral dose of 20-80mg, prescribed based on cardiovascular risk assessment.
Flags
- Requires a prescription and medical supervision.
- Common side effects include muscle pain (myalgia) and elevated liver enzymes.
- Associated with a small but statistically significant increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Rare but serious risk of rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown).
- Interacts with grapefruit juice and certain antifungal or antibiotic medications.