Indications
- Pravastatin is utilized in conjunction with a proper diet to lower “bad” cholesterol and fats, including LDL and triglycerides while increasing “good” cholesterol (HDL) in the blood.
- It is classified as a “statin,” a group of drugs that function by reducing the production of cholesterol by the liver.
- By diminishing “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides and elevating “good” cholesterol, the medication contributes to a decreased risk of heart disease and aids in preventing strokes and heart attacks.
- Alongside maintaining a proper diet, such as a low cholesterol/low-fat diet, lifestyle changes like regular exercise, weight loss if overweight, and smoking cessation can enhance the effectiveness of this medication.
- For more information and personalized guidance on lifestyle modifications, consult your doctor.
Dosage and administration
- Administer this medication orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor, typically once daily.
- The prescribed dosage depends on factors such as your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and concurrent use of other medications. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- If you are also taking certain medications to lower cholesterol (such as bile acid-binding resins like cholestyramine or colestipol), take pravastatin at least 1 hour before or at least 4 hours after these drugs. This precaution prevents potential interactions that could hinder pravastatin’s full absorption.
- Take this medication consistently to derive maximum benefits. Remember to take it at the same time every day and continue even if you feel well. Individuals with high cholesterol or triglycerides may not necessarily experience symptoms of illness.
- It is crucial to adhere to your doctor’s advice regarding diet and exercise. The full benefits of the drug may take up to 4 weeks to become apparent.
Side effects
- Recognize that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor believes that the benefits outweigh the potential risks of side effects. Many individuals using this medication experience no serious side effects.
- A very small number of people taking pravastatin may encounter mild memory problems or confusion. If these rare effects occur, consult with your doctor.
- In rare cases, statins like pravastatin may cause or worsen diabetes. Discuss the benefits and risks of this potential effect with your doctor.
- Muscle problems may rarely occur with this drug, which can lead to serious conditions like rhabdomyolysis and autoimmune myopathy. Inform your doctor promptly if you experience symptoms such as muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially accompanied by fever or unusual tiredness. Additionally, report any signs of kidney problems, such as changes in urine volume.
- Liver problems are another rare side effect of this medication. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of liver problems, including persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing of eyes/skin, dark urine, or stomach/abdominal pain.
- While very serious allergic reactions to this drug are rare, seek immediate medical help if you notice symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- This list does not encompass all possible side effects. If you observe any other effects not mentioned, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before starting pravastatin, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that can potentially cause allergic reactions. For more details, consult your pharmacist.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, or if you consume alcohol regularly.
- Prior to undergoing surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages, as daily alcohol use may increase the risk of liver problems, particularly when combined with pravastatin. Seek additional information from your doctor or pharmacist.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug, especially concerning muscle problems.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly necessary, as it may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.