Fluvastatin (Lescol XL)
Fluvastatin is a statin available as immediate-release capsules and an extended-release tablet. In 24-week studies, the capsules lowered LDL cholesterol by a median of 22% at 20 mg daily to 36% at 40 mg twice daily. Study results
How much does fluvastatin lower LDL cholesterol?
Fluvastatin capsules lowered LDL cholesterol by a median of 22% at 20 mg daily, 25% at 40 mg daily, and 36% at 40 mg twice daily at 24 weeks. Read the evidence.
| Dose and treatment context | LDL result |
|---|---|
| 20 mg capsule daily | |
| 40 mg capsule daily | |
| 40 mg capsule twice daily |
The table describes immediate-release capsules. The 80 mg extended-release tablet is a separate formulation, and these rows should not be read as its dose-response study.
Individual responses vary. LDL and ApoB measure different things; these LDL percentages should not be used as ApoB estimates. Compare ApoB-lowering treatments.
How is fluvastatin taken?
Once-daily capsules are taken in the evening; twice-daily capsules are taken morning and evening. The extended-release 80 mg tablet is taken once daily and should not be crushed or chewed. Prescribing information.
How does fluvastatin compare with other medications?
Fluvastatin usually lowers LDL less than Atorvastatin or Rosuvastatin. It is metabolized differently from simvastatin and lovastatin, but fluconazole and cyclosporine can still increase exposure and impose dose limits.
Which medications can be combined with fluvastatin?
A statin can be combined with Ezetimibe or a PCSK9-directed treatment such as Repatha when additional LDL lowering is needed. These medicines act through different mechanisms. Their percentage reductions should not be added together: an added treatment lowers the LDL that remains. Avoid gemfibrozil. Review other fibrates, niacin, and colchicine because of muscle-injury risk.
How much does fluvastatin cost?
Cost Plus Drugs lists fluvastatin 20mg, 30 capsules, at $52.79 before shipping ($58.04 with standard shipping). Prices were checked October 6, 2026; the quantity is not necessarily a month’s supply.
Cost Plus Drugs
Fluvastatin 20mg, 30 capsules: $52.79 including the dispensing fee, or $58.04 with standard shipping.
GoodRx
Compare local coupon prices for the same 20mg strength and 30 capsules. The pharmacy, ZIP code, and coupon can change the price; this is a live comparison, not a second fixed quote.
Compare the cash price with your plan’s out-of-pocket quote for the same strength and quantity. Coupon purchases may not count toward your insurance deductible.
Does insurance cover fluvastatin?
Coverage for fluvastatin varies by plan and formulation. These named formularies and medical policies were checked October 6, 2026; your plan’s rules and cost sharing may differ.
| Insurer | Coverage policy |
|---|---|
| UnitedHealthcare | UnitedHealthcare lists fluvastatin at Tier 1, with no prior authorization, step therapy, or quantity limit listed. Commercial PDL, September 2026. |
| Aetna | Immediate-release capsules and the 80 mg extended-release tablet are preferred generics. Advanced Control, October 2026. |
| Cigna | Cigna lists generic fluvastatin, including the extended-release product, at Tier 1 with a preventive pathway and possible home-delivery requirement. California Standard 4-Tier (DMHC), July 2026. |
| Anthem | Capsules are Tier 1 with dose optimization; the 80 mg extended-release tablet is Tier 2 with a one-tablet daily limit. Preventive $0 pathways are listed. California Individual Select, October 2026. |
| Blue Shield of California | Capsules are Tier 2; 20 mg is limited to one capsule daily and 40 mg to two daily. Standard Formulary. |
| BCBS of Texas | No listing for fluvastatin was located in this named pharmacy formulary. This does not establish a denial; ask the plan about its current drug list, exceptions, and medical-benefit coverage. Performance Annual, 2026. |
What are the side effects of fluvastatin?
Muscle pain can occur; severe muscle injury and serious liver injury are uncommon but important risks. Report unexplained weakness, dark urine, or jaundice promptly. A clinician should review liver disease, pregnancy plans, and the full medication list before treatment. Fluvastatin can cause gastrointestinal symptoms as well as muscle complaints. Capsule and extended-release prescriptions should not be switched without checking the dose and instructions. Full safety information.
Does fluvastatin reduce heart attacks or strokes?
Fluvastatin has cardiovascular outcome evidence in patients after a coronary intervention from the LIPS study. This is a different clinical context from starting treatment in someone who has never had cardiovascular disease. Read the supporting evidence.
Is fluvastatin right for you?
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