pravastatin

Pravastatin is a small molecule statin medication used to lower cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular disease. It works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase in the liver, which reduces cholesterol synthesis and increases the breakdown of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. This leads to decreased levels of LDL ("bad" cholesterol) and triglycerides, while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL, "good" cholesterol). Pravastatin is indicated for dyslipidemia management and for reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events in at-risk individuals. It is typically used alongside dietary changes, exercise, and weight loss[1][2][3][5]. Common side effects include muscle pain, headache, nausea, diarrhea; serious risks include rhabdomyolysis and liver dysfunction[1][3][5]. Pravastatin was developed by Sankyo Pharma (now Daiichi Sankyo), with Bristol Myers Squibb marketing it outside Japan[3].

Brand names

PravacholMevalotinSelektineLipostat

Other names

pravastatin sodium普伐他汀钠