What is the recommended dosage for Crestor (rosuvastatin)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 2, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

The maximum recommended dosage for Crestor (rosuvastatin) is 40 mg daily, which is reserved for patients with severe hypercholesterolemia who haven't achieved their target cholesterol levels with lower doses. The recommended starting dosage for Crestor (rosuvastatin) is typically 10 mg once daily for most adults with high cholesterol. However, dosing can range from 5 mg to 40 mg once daily depending on individual factors such as cholesterol levels, cardiovascular risk, and response to treatment. Patients with certain risk factors, including Asian ancestry, advanced age, kidney impairment, or those taking certain medications that interact with rosuvastatin, may need to start at a lower dose of 5 mg daily. The medication should be taken at the same time each day, with or without food. Dose adjustments are usually made at 2-4 week intervals based on lipid measurements and tolerability. Rosuvastatin works by inhibiting an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a key role in cholesterol production in the liver, thereby reducing LDL ("bad") cholesterol and increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol. According to the most recent study 1, the maximum recommended dose is 40 mg daily.

Some key points to consider when prescribing Crestor (rosuvastatin) include:

  • Starting dose: 10 mg once daily for most adults
  • Dose range: 5 mg to 40 mg once daily
  • Maximum recommended dose: 40 mg daily for patients with severe hypercholesterolemia
  • Dose adjustments: made at 2-4 week intervals based on lipid measurements and tolerability
  • Special considerations: patients with Asian ancestry, advanced age, kidney impairment, or those taking certain medications that interact with rosuvastatin may need to start at a lower dose of 5 mg daily.

It's also important to note that the evidence from study 1 suggests that high-intensity statin therapy, such as rosuvastatin 40 mg daily, may be associated with an increased risk of new-onset diabetes, particularly in patients with a history of diabetes or those at high risk for developing diabetes. However, the benefits of statin therapy in reducing cardiovascular risk generally outweigh the potential risks, and the decision to prescribe Crestor (rosuvastatin) should be made on an individual basis, taking into account the patient's overall risk profile and medical history.

From the FDA Drug Label

The dosage range for rosuvastatin tablets is 5 mg to 40 mg orally once daily. The recommended dose of rosuvastatin tablets depends on a patient’s indication for usage, LDL-C, and individual risk for CV events.

The maximum dosage for Crestor (rosuvastatin) is 40 mg orally once daily 2.

From the Research

Dosage Information for Crestor (Rosuvastatin)

  • The maximum recommended dosage for Crestor (rosuvastatin) is not explicitly stated in the provided studies 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • However, one study compared the efficacy and safety of rosuvastatin 10 mg administered every other day versus once daily in patients with hypercholesterolemia 7.
  • The study found that rosuvastatin 10 mg once daily reduced LDL-C levels by 48%, while the every-other-day regimen reduced LDL-C levels by 39% 7.
  • The study suggests that every-other-day dosing of rosuvastatin may be an alternative regimen for cost savings, without a major decrease in therapeutic benefit or increase in adverse events, in patients with hypercholesterolemia 7.

Recommended Dosage

  • The recommended dosage for Crestor (rosuvastatin) is typically determined by the patient's individual needs and medical history.
  • According to the study, the once-daily regimen of rosuvastatin 10 mg was more effective in reducing LDL-C levels, but the every-other-day regimen may be a viable alternative for patients who require a more cost-effective option 7.
  • It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage and treatment plan for each patient.

Safety and Efficacy

  • The studies provided do not report any significant safety concerns or adverse events associated with the use of Crestor (rosuvastatin) 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
  • However, it is crucial to monitor patients for potential side effects and adjust the dosage or treatment plan as needed.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.