Pravastatin sodium is a prescription medication classified as a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, and commonly known as a statin. It is used in combination with dietary therapy to reduce high levels of total cholesterol, LDL, or "bad cholesterol," and triglycerides. Statins are the first choice for treating elevated cholesterol because they are the most potent LDL-lowering medications. Like all medications, pravastatin sodium produces many side effects, especially in a high dose.
Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea
Nausea and vomiting occur in about 7 percent of those on the medication, reports the "Drug Information Handbook." The medication can be taken without regard to food, so take it with a meal to avoid these side effects. Diarrhea may occur in about 6 percent of patients. You can use an over-the-counter medication to treat diarrhea, but ask for a pharmacist's help and advice before starting any over-the-counter medication. If diarrhea continues or becomes severe, stop the drug and seek medical help right away.
Headache and Dizziness
Headaches may be seen in up to 6 percent of patients. Pain killers, such as acetaminophen or aspirin, may be taken to alleviate a headache. Dizziness and fatigue may be present in about 3 percent of patients; avoid driving or other activities that require alertness. These side effects are seen with initial doses of pravastatin, but subside with continued use of the drug. If headaches or dizziness become severe, inform your physician.
Elevated Liver Enzymes
Pravastatin may increase levels of the transaminases, which are liver enzymes, especially with the 40 mg dose. Liver function tests should be performed periodically by your physician, so do not skip doctor appointments. If liver enzymes are three times normal levels, the medication is discontinued and may be restarted when the problem resolves. Patients with liver disease should avoid the use of this medication or start on 10 mg a day.
Muscle Weakness or Pain
Muscle weakness or pain may indicate you have rhabdomyolysis or myopathy. Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which muscle fibers break down and the waste products are released into the blood. These chemicals cause general weakness, muscle pain or stiffness and joint pain, and may lead to kidney damage. Myopathy is condition in which the muscle fibers do not function properly and results in muscle weakness. If you develop any of these symptoms, stop the medication and seek medical attention immediately. "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach" explains that the risk of developing rhabdomyolysis is increased when pravastatin is prescribed in higher doses or when taken in combination with gemfibrozil, fenofibrate and niacin.
References
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- PubMed Health: Pravastatin
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