About pravastati n
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin)
Used for
- Lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
- Reduces risk of heart attack and stroke
Usual adult dose
Usually 10–40 mg once daily for cholesterol; up to 80 mg daily may be prescribed.
Usual dose in children
For familial high cholesterol, ages 8–13: 20 mg once daily; ages 14–18: 40 mg once daily.
Common side effects
- Muscle aches or weakness
- Headache
- Nausea or diarrhea
- Abnormal liver tests
Important warnings
- Rarely causes serious muscle injury or liver problems
- Report unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
- Not suitable during pregnancy; generally stop if pregnancy occurs
- Use caution with liver disease and heavy alcohol use
Pregnancy
Avoid during pregnancy; most people should stop pravastatin when pregnancy is recognized. Specialist exceptions may apply.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is generally not recommended while taking pravastatin.
Interactions
- Gemfibrozil and other fibrates increase muscle injury risk
- Cyclosporine can raise pravastatin levels
- Some antibiotics, including clarithromycin, may increase muscle-related risks
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.