Pravastatin, sold under the brand name Pravachol among others, is a statin medication, used for preventing cardiovascular disease in those at high risk and treating abnormal lipids. It is suggested to be used together with diet changes, exercise, and weight loss. It is taken by mouth.[4]
Common side effects include joint pain, diarrhea, nausea, headaches, and muscle pains.[4] Serious side effects may include rhabdomyolysis, liver problems, and diabetes.[4] Use during pregnancy may harm the fetus.[4] Like all statins, pravastatin works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme found in liver that plays a role in producing cholesterol.[4]