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Uses for Pravastatin

Pravastatin is a type of statin drug, available in generic form and as the brand Pravachol. Statins block an enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol. The use of pravastatin focuses on cardiovascular health.

  1. High Cholesterol

    • Doctors mainly prescribe pravastatin to lower cholesterol and triglycerides (fats) in adults with high levels of these substances. Lowering cholesterol reduces the risk of strokes, heart attacks and the need for medical procedures involving the heart.

    Genetic Conditon

    • Pravastatin also is prescribed for children ages 8 and older who have the genetic condition heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, which causes high cholesterol.

    Atherosclerotic Disease

    • Pravastatin reduces the rate at which atherosclerotic disease, such as peripheral arterial disease, develops in people who already have some form of heart disease.

    Peripheral Artery Disease

    • Aggressive cholesterol control with statins, such as pravastatin, also reduces death rates in people with peripheral artery disease.

    Artery Inflammation and Coagulation

    • Additionally, pravastatin shows promise for reducing artery inflammation and coagulation in type 2 diabetic patients, according to a study published in a 2004 issue of "Diabetes Care." This could help reduce cardiovascular complications in people with type 2 diabetes.

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