Patients who have elevated cholesterol levels may be able to reduce the amount of cholesterol in their bodies by using a medication called Pravachol. Pravachol contains pravastatin, a medication that reduces cholesterol levels by inhibiting the action of a cholesterol generating enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase. To achieve the best results while using this medication, patients should also maintain healthy eating and exercise routines. Patients should discuss the side effects of Pravachol with a doctor before using this medication.
Diarrhea
During clinical trials for this medication, approximately 6 percent of patients developed diarrhea as a side effect of treatment, according to RxList. Diarrhea, or frequent, loose bowel movements, can be uncomfortable and may cause additional stomach-related side effects such as abdominal cramping, gas or bloating. Patients who develop persistent diarrhea are also at risk of becoming dehydrated due to excessive fluid loss. Chronic diarrhea side effects that arise during treatment with Pravachol should be discussed with a physician.
Heartburn
Patients may experience a mild to moderate burning sensation within the chest or upper part of the abdomen as a side effect of Pravachol. This side effect is called heartburn and affected approximately 3 percent of clinical trial patients, the United States Food and Drug Administration reports. Patients who develop heartburn in conjunction with chest pain or nausea should seek prompt medical care. These side effects of Pravachol may also be signs of a heart attack.
Flu-like Symptoms
Flu-like side effects may develop in patients receiving treatment with Pravachol, MedlinePlus reports. These side effects may include fever, extreme fatigue, diminished appetite, muscle pain or weakness. If any of these flu-like symptoms arise, affected patients should consult a doctor for further evaluation and care.
Skin Rash
Pravachol may cause skin rash side effects in patients during treatment. Skin rash symptoms are typically mild, Drugs.com reports, but may cause red, irritated lesions to develop across a patient's body. Approximately 4 percent of patients taking Pravachol during clinical trials reported developing skin rash side effects, RxList reports. If such side effects become severe, affected patients should contact a medical professional.
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