Pravachol

Pravachol is a prescription drug that is licensed to treat conditions related to heart disease, such as high cholesterol and high triglycerides. It is a type of statin that works by blocking an enzyme that controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body. Pravachol increases the liver's ability to collect and get rid of LDL cholesterol. At the same time, it can help increase HDL cholesterol and decrease triglycerides. The medicine is suitable for use in both adults and children ages 8 to 18 for the treatment of high cholesterol.

 

What Is Pravachol?

Pravachol® (pravastatin sodium) is a prescription medication used for treating a number of conditions related to heart disease, including high cholesterol and high triglycerides. It is part of a class of drugs called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, which are more popularly known as statins. Pravachol is also available in generic tablets (Pravastatin tablets).
 

Who Makes Pravachol?

Pravachol is manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb.
 

What Is Pravachol Used For?

Pravachol has been licensed for several uses, including:
 
  • Treatment of high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia).
  • Treatment of high triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are the main storage form of fat in the body.
  • Prevention of heart disease and heart-related problems.
     
Pravachol has also been approved for use in children ages 8 to 18 for the treatment of high cholesterol.
 

How Does Pravachol Work?

Pravachol is part of a class of drugs called statins.
 Pravachol works by blocking a particular enzyme (HMG-CoA reductase) that controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body. This causes the liver to make less cholesterol. Pravachol also:
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;