Pravachol and Muscle Pain

Clinical studies have looked at the relationship between Pravachol and muscle pain. According to research, muscle pain is a side effect that occurs in up to 2.7 percent of patients taking Pravachol. Muscle pain is more likely to occur when first starting the drug or when the dosage is increased. Certain drugs, when taken in combination with Pravachol, may also increase the chances of developing severe muscle pain.

 

Pravachol and Muscle Pain: An Introduction

While most people tolerate Pravachol® (pravastatin sodium) well, there are possible side effects that can occur. For people taking Pravachol, muscle pain is a common side effect. In previous clinical studies, muscle pain occurred in up to 2.7 percent of people taking the medicine.
 

Pravachol and Muscle Pain -- What to Watch For

Most people who have muscle pain while on Pravachol have no other muscle symptoms.
 However, in rare cases (less than 0.1 percent), people can develop a serious problem with their muscles while on Pravachol, and muscle pain can be one of the symptoms. Two serious muscle problems that are rarely seen in people taking Pravachol are myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. Rhabdomyolysis is very serious because it can cause muscles to break down, which can ultimately lead to acute kidney failure. In some cases, this can result in loss of life.
 
If you develop muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness while on Pravachol (especially if you also have a fever or feel ill), call your healthcare provider immediately. This could be a sign that you have a serious condition that needs treatment right away.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;