Pravastatin is the generic form of the brand-name drug Pravachol, which is used to lower cholesterol levels.
Pravastatin reduces levels of "bad" cholesterol, which is called low-density lipoprotein or LDL.
It also raises levels of "good" cholesterol, which is called high-density lipoprotein or HDL, and it lowers levels of harmful triglycerides in the blood.
Lowing cholesterol and fats in the blood with pravastatin may prevent heart disease, chest pain, strokes, and heart attacks.
Pravastatin is in a group of drugs known as statins, which work by blocking an enzyme that the body needs to make cholesterol. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved pravastatin in 2006.
Pravastatin Warnings
Pravastatin should be used along with diet, weight loss, and exercise to reduce cardiovascular risks. The medicine is only one part of a lifestyle treatment plan.Before taking pravastatin, you should tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:
- Liver disease
- Low blood pressure
- Seizures
- Muscle aches or weakness
- Thyroid disease
- Kidney disease