Cerivastatin is primarily used as a lipid-lowering agent to manage hypercholesterolemia and prevent cardiovascular diseases. It works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis in the liver, thereby reducing LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels while increasing HDL cholesterol. This makes it effective in lowering the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes in patients with elevated cholesterol levels. Due to its potent activity, it was often prescribed for patients who required significant cholesterol reduction. However, its use has been discontinued in many countries due to the risk of severe side effects, such as rhabdomyolysis, a condition involving muscle breakdown. Despite its withdrawal, cerivastatin remains a notable example in the study of statin-related pharmacology and drug safety.