Pravastatin (Pravachol®)
| Drug Overview |  |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Statins |
| Mechanism | HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor |
| Primary Uses | Hyperlipidemia; ASCVD Prevention |
| Route | Oral |
| Dose Range | 10–80 mg daily |
| Intensity | Low–Moderate |
| LDL Reduction | 20–40% |
| Metabolism | Minimal CYP (non-CYP metabolism) |
| Half-life | ~1.5–2 hours |
| Elimination | Hepatic + Renal |
| Renal Adjustment | Yes (severe CKD) |
| Black Box Warning | No |
| FDA Approval | 1991 |
Overview
Pravastatin is a hydrophilic statin with lower drug–drug interaction potential compared to CYP-metabolized statins.
It is less potent than Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin, but is often selected in patients with polypharmacy or high interaction risk.
It is considered a safer option in complex medication regimens.
Mechanism of Action
Primary Target:
- HMG-CoA reductase (rate-limiting enzyme in hepatic cholesterol synthesis)
Physiologic Effects:
- ↓ Hepatic cholesterol synthesis
- ↑ LDL receptor expression
- ↑ LDL clearance
Net Effect:
- Mild-to-moderate LDL reduction
- Reduced ASCVD risk
LDL lowering is dose-dependent.
Indications
- Secondary prevention after: