Pravachol (Pravastatin)

Common uses

This medicine is an hmg-coa reductase inhibitor (also known as a "statin") used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in your blood. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Do not take this medicine if you are also taking fibrates such as gemfibrozil, clofibrate, or fenofibrate; or high-dose niacin (1 gram or more per day).

Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking cyclosporine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, muscle problems, alcohol use, allergies (especially to other "statins"), pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Use of Pravachol is not recommended if you have a history of liver conditions or abnormal liver function test results. Certain medical conditions, including low blood pressure; severe infection; uncontrolled seizures; or serious metabolic, endocrine, or electrolyte problems may increase your risk for side effects that can result in kidney problems while taking Pravachol. Contact your doctor if you develop one of these conditions. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking Pravachol.

Directions

Follow the directions for using Pravachol provided by your doctor. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. Try to take Pravachol at the same time each day. Store this medicine at room temperature at 77 degrees f (25 degrees c), away from heat, moisture, and light. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees f (15 and 30 degrees c) is permitted. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Follow the dietary plan provided by your doctor. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are using Pravachol. Before having any kind of surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. For women: do not use Pravachol if you are pregnant. If you suspect that you could be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. This medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Pravachol.

Possible side effects

Side effects that may occur while taking Pravachol include dizziness or flu-like symptoms. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if associated with fever and a general feeling of discomfort; rash; yellow skin or eyes; unusual bleeding or bruising; or sore throat.

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience the following side effects or symptoms of toxicity: swelling of hands, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue; difficulty swallowing or breathing; or hoarseness. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Additional information

For best results, Pravachol should be used along with exercise, a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet, and a weight loss program if you are overweight. Follow the dietary plan provided by your doctor. Consult with your doctor.

Do not share Pravachol with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use Pravachol for other health conditions. Keep Pravachol out of the reach of children and pets. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.