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Pravastatin

Brand names: Pravachol

Pravastatin is a statin that lowers LDL cholesterol and the risk of heart attack and stroke. It has fewer drug interactions than some other statins.

Brand namesPravachol
Type of medicineStatin (cholesterol medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It slows the liver's production of cholesterol. It works best with a healthy diet and exercise.

What it's used for

  • High LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
  • Lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke

How to take it

  • Take it once a day at any time, with or without food.
  • Keep taking it even if you feel well.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Muscle aches
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Stuffy nose
Call your provider todayUnexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
Call your provider todayDark urine or yellow skin or eyes

Warnings

  • Not used during pregnancy.
  • Tell your provider if you have liver disease or drink a lot of alcohol.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Gemfibrozil, cyclosporine, and clarithromycin raise the risk of muscle problems.
  • Take bile acid binders (cholestyramine) at least 1 hour after or 4 hours before pravastatin.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Statins are generally stopped during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.