What is Pravastatin? Uses, warnings & side effects

Take this medicine as directed. The dosage may need to change at the start of therapy.

Follow the diet and exercise recommendations given by the physician.

Take only one dose daily.

Tablets can be taken at any time of day.

• The prescriber may advise that pravastatin tablets be taken in the evening. Follow all the prescriber’s instructions.

Tablets can be taken without regard to food.

Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water. Do not crush the tablet.

Store the tablets in a closed container at room temperature, protected from light.

Take a dose as soon as you remember. 

If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. 

Do not take two doses to make up for a missed dose.

This medicine is not right for everyone. 

Do not use it if you have had an allergic reaction to pravastatin or have:

• Active liver failure

• Cirrhosis of the liver that is getting worse 

Pravastatin is not contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, but it can harm a fetus or a nursing infant. Doctors are advised to stop statin treatment in pregnant women. Breastfeeding is not recommended in women taking pravastatin.

It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

Tell any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you that you are using this medicine, especially before a medical or dental procedure. The drug may need to be stopped before some procedures can be safely performed.

The prescriber will require regular office visits and blood tests to monitor the effects of pravastatin treatment. Keep all appointments.

Tell the prescriber about all your medical conditions, particularly:

• Kidney disease

• Liver disease

• Diabetes

• Thyroid problems

• Unexplained muscle aches or muscle pain

Tell the prescriber if you drink alcohol regularly (two drinks or more daily).

This medicine may cause:

• Muscle pain or muscle weakness

• Severe muscle damage, which can damage the kidneys

• Liver problems

• Increased blood sugar levels

Pravastatin can increase blood sugar levels. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly and eating healthy foods.

To avoid possible drug interactions, tell the prescribing clinician about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements being taken, particularly:

• The antibiotics erythromycin or clarithromycin 

• Cholesterol drugs called fibrates, particularly gemfibrozil

• Colchicine, cyclosporine, niacin

Tell other healthcare providers you are using pravastatin before they prescribe new medications.

If you are also taking the cholesterol drugs colestipol or cholestyramine, take the pravastatin tablet at least one hour before or four hours after taking the colestipol or cholestyramine dose.