From the FDA Drug Label
The following laboratory abnormalities have also been reported: ... and pancreatitis Adverse reactions reported in clinical studies were ... and pancreatitis
The FDA drug label mentions pancreatitis as an adverse reaction, which can be associated with elevated lipase levels.
- Elevated lipase is a marker of pancreatitis.
- The label does not directly state that rosuvastatin causes elevated lipase, but it does report pancreatitis, which is related to elevated lipase.
- Therefore, it can be inferred that rosuvastatin may cause elevated lipase levels indirectly through its association with pancreatitis 1.
From the Research
Rosuvastatin (Crestor) can potentially cause elevated lipase levels, though this is not among its common side effects. Rosuvastatin belongs to the statin class of medications used to lower cholesterol, and in rare cases, statins including rosuvastatin have been associated with pancreatic inflammation (pancreatitis), which typically presents with elevated lipase levels. If you're taking rosuvastatin and discover elevated lipase levels, particularly if accompanied by symptoms like severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, you should contact your healthcare provider promptly. They may need to evaluate whether the medication is causing pancreatic inflammation or if there's another explanation for the elevated lipase. The mechanism behind statin-induced pancreatitis isn't fully understood but may relate to the drug's effects on cell membranes or metabolic pathways. Your doctor might recommend temporarily stopping the medication, switching to a different statin, or adjusting the dosage depending on your specific situation and the severity of lipase elevation 2, 3. Some studies have investigated the safety of rosuvastatin, including its effects on liver and kidney function, but the association with elevated lipase levels is less commonly discussed 4, 5, 6. However, given the potential risk, even if rare, it's crucial for patients on rosuvastatin to be aware of the symptoms of pancreatitis and to seek medical attention if they occur. The decision to continue, adjust, or stop the medication should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider, weighing the benefits of cholesterol reduction against the potential risks 2. It's also important to note that while rosuvastatin has been shown to be effective in reducing LDL cholesterol and improving lipid profiles, the primary concern in the context of this question is the potential for elevated lipase levels and the associated risk of pancreatitis. Thus, monitoring and prompt medical evaluation are key for patients experiencing symptoms that could indicate pancreatitis while on rosuvastatin therapy.