SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation or stomach pain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. This drug may infrequently cause muscle damage (which can rarely lead to a very serious, possibly fatal, condition called rhabdomyolysis). Seek immediate medical attention if you develop: muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine, severe fatigue, severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea, change in the amount of urine. A serious allergic reaction to this medication is unlikely but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking lovastatin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other "statins"; or if you have any other allergies. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: active liver disease. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart disease, history of liver disease, kidney disease, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), diabetes (poorly controlled), alcohol use. The rare development of severe muscle damage (see Side Effects) can infrequently lead to serious kidney problems. This medication is usually temporarily stopped if you have any condition which can increase your risk of developing kidney problems. Before stopping your medication, notify your doctor immediately if you have any of the following conditions: major surgery, trauma, serious illness (e.g., sepsis, severe metabolic/endocrine/electrolyte disorders), very low blood pressure, uncontrolled seizures. Limit alcoholic beverages. Daily use of alcohol may increase your chance for serious side effects. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug, especially muscle damage. Lovastatin must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is recommended that women of child-bearing age use effective birth control measures to prevent pregnancy while taking this drug since lovastatin may cause fetal harm. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Based on information from related drugs, this medication may pass into breast milk and have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this medication. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.