Pravastatin: Uses, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions
Brand names: PRAVASTATIN SODIUM
# Understanding Pravastatin Pravastatin is a medication used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. It works by blocking an enzyme in your liver that makes cholesterol. Doctors prescribe it to patients who have high cholesterol levels or who are at risk for heart problems. By lowering "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides while raising "good" cholesterol (HDL), pravastatin helps protect your heart and blood vessels from damage caused by too much cholesterol. Like all medicines, pravastatin can cause side effects and interact with other drugs. You should tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take, especially other cholesterol drugs, certain antibiotics, cyclosporine, or niacin, as these combinations can increase the risk of muscle problems. Some people may experience muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness while taking this medication. It's important to take pravastatin exactly as your doctor prescribes, usually once a day, and to have regular check-ups to make sure it's working safely for you. If you experience unusual muscle pain or weakness, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor right away.
Known Interactions (3)
Taking Pravastatin with other medications?
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Check Now ↓Most Reported Side Effects (FAERS)
- FATIGUE1,262 reports
- DIARRHOEA1,095 reports
- NAUSEA954 reports
- DYSPNOEA928 reports
- HEADACHE842 reports
- FALL837 reports
- DRUG INEFFECTIVE831 reports
- DIZZINESS751 reports
- ASTHENIA710 reports
- ARTHRALGIA709 reports
Source: FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Voluntary reports do not establish causation.
Recent Recalls (5)
- Class II
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA · June 28, 2024
Pravastatin Sodium Tablets, USP 80mg, packaged in a) 90-count bottle, NDC 68462-198-90; b) 500-count bottle, NDC 68462-198-05, Rx only, Manufactured by: Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited Pithampur, MadFailed Dissolution Specifications: results below specifications
Source: FDA (openFDA Drug Enforcement). Voluntary and mandated recalls affecting this drug.
Supplement Interactions (1)
These dietary supplements may interact with Pravastatin. Always consult your healthcare provider.
- mildcoenzyme q10
Statins reduce endogenous CoQ10 production. Supplementing may help with statin-related muscle symptoms (beneficial interaction).
CoQ10 supplementation is sometimes recommended alongside statins.
Check interactions with Pravastatin:
SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.