Pravachol (Pravastatin)

Description

Pravachol is used to treat elevated levels of cholesterol in the body. This medication is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor and belongs to a class of substances that are involved in the lowering of lipid levels. Pravachol is a part of the statin family.

 

 

 

Uses

 

This medication is used as a treatment for individuals whose cholesterol levels are extremely high. Pravachol lowers the amount of dangerous fats that are manufactured by the body. This decreases the levels of cholesterol in the body.

 

For individuals with diseases such as diabetes and heart conditions, this greatly reduces the prevalence of the occurrence of a stroke or heart attack.

 

For other benefits that may be gained from the use of Pravachol, contact your doctor.

 

Pravachol is prescribed to both adults and children who are at least eight years old.

 

 

Dosage

 

Always follow the instructions provided to you by your physician. Do not take Pravachol in higher or lower doses than directed by your doctor.

 

This medication should be taken orally.

 

For adults, it is recommended that Pravachol is taken in doses of 40 mg. This should be taken once every day, with or without a meal.

 

For children between the ages of 8 and 13, a dose of 20 mg is commended. The dose should be taken once every day, with or without a meal.

 

For adolescents between the age of 14 and 18, a dose of 40 mg is recommended. The dose should be taken once every day, with or without a meal.

 

If you missed your dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose needs to be taken soon, do not take the missed dose. Instead, take your scheduled dose. Do not combine your doses.

 

In case you overdose on this medication, call emergency services

 

Side Effects

 

The most common side effects when taking this medication are:

 

 Body pain
 Discomfort in joints
 Difficulty with mobility

 

The less common side effects of Pravachol are:

 

 Limb pain
 Cough
 Blocked ear
 Discoloration of urine
 Problems with bowel movements
 Change in appetite
 Nausea
 Muscle discomfort
 Fatigue
 Cold-like symptoms
 Changes in sleeping pattern
 Headache
 Changes in skin temperature
 Fever

 

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your physician immediately.

 

Contraindications

 

 Do not use Pravachol if you are pregnant or are breastfeeding a child. Contact your doctor if you become pregnant while you are prescribed this medication.

 

 Do not take Pravachol if you have a pravastatin allergy.

 

 Certain medications that you have been prescribed could negatively impact the effect of Pravachol. You should not take Pravachol if you are also taking colchicine or gemfibrozil.

 

 If you are being treated with any of the following medications – cyclosporine, fibrates, niacin, or erythromycin – contact your physician. Taking Pravachol and any of these drugs may cause a muscle disease.

 

 Notify your doctor if you have had a history of liver disease.

 

 Always inform your physician of any allergies or sensitivities you may have before being prescribed a medication.

 

 You should also tell your doctor of any medications you are taking even if they are over the counter or herbal supplements.