Pravastatin

Pravastatin is a medication that is licensed to treat high cholesterol and high triglycerides. Use of this drug can also help prevent heart disease and other heart-related problems. Pravastatin, which is a form of statin, works by blocking a particular enzyme that controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body. It has been approved for use in both adults and children ages 8 to 18 for the treatment of high cholesterol.

 

What Is Pravastatin?

Pravastatin is a prescription medication used for treating a number of conditions related to heart disease, including high cholesterol and high triglycerides. It is sold under the brand name Pravachol®. It is also available as a generic, sold as Pravastatin tablets ("pravastatin"). It is part of a class of drugs called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, which are more popularly known as statins.
 

Who Makes Pravastatin?

Pravastatin is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals.
 

What Is Pravastatin Used For?

Pravastatin has been licensed for several uses, including:
 
  • Treatment of high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia).
  • Treatment of high triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are the main storage form of fat in the body.
  • Prevention of heart disease and heart-related problems.
     
Pravastatin has also been approved for use in children ages 8 to 18 for the treatment of high cholesterol.
 

How Does Pravastatin Work?

Pravastatin is part of a class of drugs called statins.
 Pravastatin works by blocking a particular enzyme (HMG-CoA reductase) that controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body. This causes the liver to make less cholesterol. Pravastatin also:
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;