Pravastatin

Definition

Pravastatin is a lipid-lowering medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as statins or HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. It works by reducing levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pravastatin specifically inhibits the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a crucial role in cholesterol biosynthesis.
2. It is commonly prescribed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke.
3. Pravastatin is typically administered orally and can be taken with or without food.
4. Common side effects include headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and abnormalities in liver enzyme tests.
5. Patients taking Pravastatin should avoid consuming large amounts of grapefruit juice as it can increase the drug's concentration in the blood.

Review Questions

• What enzyme does Pravastatin inhibit to lower cholesterol levels?
• List two common side effects associated with Pravastatin use.
• Why should patients taking Pravastatin avoid grapefruit juice?

Related terms

Statins:

A class of drugs that lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase.

LDL Cholesterol:

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, often referred to as 'bad' cholesterol due to its association with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

PCSK9 Inhibitors:

A newer class of lipid-lowering drugs that work by inhibiting the protein PCSK9, leading to increased removal of LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.