pravastatin

n.
A statin, C ₂₃H₃₅NaO₇, that blocks the body's synthesis of cholesterol and is administered especially to persons who are at risk for heart disease.

[pra-, of unknown origin + -vastatin, statin suff. (from mevastatin, a statin : meva(lonic acid), precursor in the biosynthesis of cholesterol , from VAL(ERIC ACID) + -STAT + -IN).]

n

trade name: Pravachol; drug class: antihyperlipidemic; action: inhibits HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, which reduces cholesterol synthesis; use: as an adjunct in primary hypercholesterolemia (types IIa, IIb).

Brand names: Pravachol®

Chemical formula:

Español:
• Pravastatina Sódica, Tableta oral

Pravastatin Sodium Oral tablet

What is this medicine?

PRAVASTATIN (PRA va stat in) is known as a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor or 'statin'. It lowers the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. This drug may also reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or other health problems in patients with risk factors for heart disease. Diet and lifestyle changes are often used with this drug.
 
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•frequently drink alcoholic beverages
•kidney disease
•liver disease
•muscle aches or weakness
•other medical condition
•an unusual or allergic reaction to pravastatin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take pravastatin tablets by mouth. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Pravastatin can be taken at anytime of the day, with or without food. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. Pravastatin has been used in children as young as 8 years of age.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What may interact with this medicine?

•alcohol-containing beverages
•cholestyramine
•colestipol
•cyclosporine
•erythromycin
•gemfibrozil
•herbal medicines such as red yeast rice
•medicines for fungal infections (examples: ketoconazole, itraconazole)
•niacin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check-ups. You may need regular tests to make sure your liver is working properly.

Tell you doctor or health care professional right away if you get any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if you also have a fever and tiredness.

This drug is only part of a total heart-health program. Your doctor or a dietician can suggest a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet to help. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule.

Do not use this drug if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Serious side effects to an unborn child or to an infant are possible. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

If you are going to have surgery tell your health care professional that you are taking this drug.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
•dark urine
•fever
•muscle pain, cramps, or weakness
•redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
•trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
•unusually weak or tired
•yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•gas
•headache
•heartburn
•indigestion
•stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 to 30 degrees C (59 to 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Last updated: 7/1/2002

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

Note: click on a word meaning below to see its connections and related words.

The noun has one meaning:

Meaning #1: an oral drug (trade name Pravachol) administered to reduce blood cholesterol levels; recommended after nonfatal heart attacks
  Synonym: Pravachol

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