Pravastatin
Pravachol (pravastatin) is a prescription statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It is prescribed for patients with elevated cholesterol and those at increased risk of cardiovascular disease to help reduce the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart-related complications.
Pravachol is a cholesterol-lowering statin medication used to reduce cardiovascular risk in eligible patients.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203333
- Generic
- Pravachol
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Pravachol is used to treat high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) and elevated triglycerides. It is also prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events in patients with established heart disease or multiple risk factors.
Pravachol belongs to a class of drugs called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins). It works by blocking the enzyme in the liver responsible for producing cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream.
Common side effects may include muscle pain, headache, and digestive issues. Patients should inform their doctor of any liver problems or unexplained muscle pain. Regular monitoring of cholesterol levels and liver function may be required. Pravachol is typically used alongside diet and exercise modifications.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy