Pitavastatin (Livalo, Zypitamag)
Pitavastatin is a once-daily statin available in generic and branded formulations. In a 12-week trial in older adults, pitavastatin lowered LDL cholesterol by 31% at 1 mg daily to 44% at 4 mg daily. Study results
How much does pitavastatin lower LDL cholesterol?
Pitavastatin reduced LDL cholesterol by 31%, 39%, and 44% at daily doses of 1, 2, and 4 mg in a 12-week study in adults aged 65 or older. Read the evidence.
| Dose and treatment context | LDL result |
|---|---|
| 1 mg daily | |
| 2 mg daily | |
| 4 mg daily |
These are mean changes from baseline in the older-adult trial, not a pooled comparison with every other statin.
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 pitavastatin taken?
Pitavastatin is taken once daily with or without food. The maximum dose is 4 mg daily. For moderate or severe kidney impairment, including hemodialysis, the recommended starting dose is 1 mg and the maximum is 2 mg daily. Prescribing information.
How does pitavastatin compare with other medications?
Pitavastatin offers moderate-intensity LDL lowering at 1–4 mg, while Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin have high-intensity regimens. Livalo and generic pitavastatin use the calcium salt; Zypitamag uses the magnesium salt. Pharmacy substitution and coverage depend on the prescribed product.
Which medications can be combined with pitavastatin?
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. Cyclosporine is contraindicated with pitavastatin, and gemfibrozil should be avoided. Erythromycin and rifampin can require lower maximum doses.
How much does pitavastatin cost?
Cost Plus Drugs lists pitavastatin 2mg, 30 tablets, at $20.04 before shipping ($25.29 with standard shipping). Prices were checked October 6, 2026; the quantity is not necessarily a month’s supply.
Cost Plus Drugs
Pitavastatin 2mg, 30 tablets: $20.04 including the dispensing fee, or $25.29 with standard shipping.
GoodRx
Compare local coupon prices for the same 2mg strength and 30 tablets. 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 pitavastatin?
Coverage for pitavastatin 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 | No listing for pitavastatin 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. Commercial PDL, September 2026. |
| Aetna | Generic pitavastatin, Livalo, and Zypitamag are listed as nonformulary. An exception request may be needed. Advanced Control, October 2026. |
| Cigna | Cigna lists generic pitavastatin at Tier 1 with a preventive pathway and possible home delivery. The 1 and 2 mg strengths are limited to one tablet daily. California Standard 4-Tier (DMHC), July 2026. |
| Anthem | No listing for pitavastatin 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. California Individual Select, October 2026. |
| Blue Shield of California | No listing for pitavastatin 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. Standard Formulary. |
| BCBS of Texas | No listing for pitavastatin 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 pitavastatin?
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. Pitavastatin is not free of muscle or glucose-related adverse effects. Kidney impairment and interacting drugs remain important even when a low milligram dose is prescribed. Full safety information.
Does pitavastatin reduce heart attacks or strokes?
The LDL study above measures cholesterol reduction, not heart attacks or strokes. Pitavastatin also has cardiovascular prevention evidence from REPRIEVE in people with HIV; that specific population should be kept in mind when interpreting the result. Read the supporting evidence.
Is pitavastatin right for you?
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