Description
Generic Name: pravastatin sodium
Drug Class: HMG Co-A reductase inhibitor/statin
Pravachol Uses
Pravachol is an oral prescription drug used to reduce total cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, triglyceride levels, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol while increasing high-density cholesterol among people with primary hypercholesterolemia, mixed dyslipidemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. It is used for patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and primary dysbetalipoproteinemia.
It reduces the risk of myocardial infarction, arterial revascularization, and cardiovascular mortality among patients who are at risk.
Pravachol Dosage Forms
This is available in Pravachol 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg tablets.
Pravachol Mechanism of Action
It catalyzes HMG-CoA conversion to mevalonate, a step in cholesterol biosynthesis. This works directly on the liver by decreasing the hepatic cholesterol concentrations to upregulate the hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptors and increase the hepatic uptake of LDL. It also reduces other lipid levels while increasing the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
How to Take Pravachol
Before you start taking Pravachol, it is necessary to read the drug information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. It is important that you completely understand the uses and directions of the medication before taking it. If you need additional medical advice or information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Pravachol tablet is only meant to be taken by mouth and is usually prescribed once a day, preferably at the same time each day. Swallow the tablet and drink fluids right after. You can take it with or without a meal.
Make a dosing schedule. If you are prescribed drugs like colestipol or cholestyramine, take Pravachol one hour prior or four hours after taking these medications. Do not increase or decrease your Pravachol dosage. It is also important not to exceed the suggested dosage of this oral drug.
Diet and regular exercise are required in conjunction with this oral medication. Eating healthy balanced meals and exercising regularly are both essential.
Pravachol Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Headache
-Nausea
-Indigestion
-Diarrhea
-Constipation
Severe Side Effects:
-High blood sugar levels
-Muscle weakness
-Unusual tiredness
-Fever
-Changes in urine output
-Severe abdominal pain
-Persistent nausea and vomiting
-Dark urine
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Pravachol.
Call your doctor or any health care professional if you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions to your medication.
Warnings and Precautions when using Pravachol
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to pravastatin or any inactive ingredients the tablet may contain. You should always be alert for serious allergy symptoms, including trouble breathing, swelling of your face and neck, dizziness, swollen lymph nodes and hives/itchiness. It is important to stop using this medication as soon as possible if you notice this side effect.
People with a history of alcohol abuse, kidney disease, and liver disease may be contraindicated from taking this medication. Moreover, you should discuss all prescription, nonprescription, and herbal products you are taking due to drug interactions.
Avoid or restrict your alcohol consumption while on this statin therapy. Drinking alcohol can further increase the risk of liver damage, especially if combined with pravastatin.
Pregnant moms must avoid this statin because it is known to cause harm to unborn babies. This medication can be passed into breastmilk for breastfeeding moms, so you must take this oral drug only if extremely necessary. All possible risks should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
How much does Pravachol cost in Canada?
You may see the list of prices at the top of this product description. We also carry the generic for a much cheaper cost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Pravachol used for?
Pravachol (generic name: pravastatin) is primarily used to lower bad cholesterol while increasing the level of good cholesterol. This is given as an adjunct to proper diet and exercise.
Is Pravachol a statin?
Yes, this product is a statin medication. Statins are referred to as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, which are lipid-lowering drugs.
How long does it take Pravachol to work?
Improvements in your cholesterol level can be seen after a week or two of taking this oral drug regularly. It is important to take it as often and as long as the physician prescribes it.
What is the difference between Pravachol and Lipitor?
These medications have the same indication. They are both prescribed to people with high cholesterol. However, they work differently. While atorvastatin is metabolized in the liver, pravastatin is broken down in the stomach.
Does Pravachol cause weight gain?
This oral prescription does not directly cause weight gain. An underlying condition might cause any sudden or unexplained weight changes while taking this drug.
Can I buy Pravachol over the counter?
This product is a prescription drug. This product will need a valid prescription from any pharmacy before you can purchase it.