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cardio:lipids:pravastatin

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

cardio/lipids/pravastatin.txt · Last modified: by andrew2393cns