What it means
An HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin): it slows the liver's production of cholesterol, lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglycerides. It is used with diet and exercise to prevent heart attack and stroke. It has fewer drug interactions than some other statins. Side effects include muscle aches and, rarely, liver injury or serious muscle breakdown.
For the nurse
Teach the client to report unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, especially with fever or dark urine, and yellow skin or eyes. Expect liver tests and a lipid panel. Statins are not taken in pregnancy.
At a glance
| Drug class | HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Pravachol |
| Spanish | pravastatina |
Related terms
coronary artery disease
Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle, most often from fatty plaque buildup.
atherosclerosis
A buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) inside the walls of the arteries.