Pravastatin

What is Pravastatin?

Pravastatin is a cholesterol lowering drug which belongs to a class of medications known as statins. These drugs decrease the levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol in the body. This reduces the associated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or stroke.

Pravastatin is prescribed when a change in diet and lifestyle has not helped to decrease the high amounts of cholesterol in a persons body.

You can get a private prescription of Pravastatin online from Prescription Doctor. Simply complete our online medical form for one of our doctors to review. If your order is approved by 3pm between Monday and Friday, our pharmacy can dispatch your item the same day.

What is High Cholesterol?

High cholesterol is a term used for when there is too much bad, or fatty, cholesterol in the body. Too much “bad cholesterol” can clog up and harden arteries, which reduces the blood flow around the body.

If left untreated, high cholesterol can lead to heart disease, vascular dementia, and stroke.

It is important to get your cholesterol level tested regularly, especially if you are over the age of 40 or have any underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes.

With Prescription Doctor's rapid cholesterol level test, you can test your cholesterol level from the comfort of your own home and get accurate results within minutes.

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How Does Pravastatin Work?

Pravastatin works by reducing the amount of bad cholesterol (known as low-density lipoprotein, or LDL for short) in the body.

This then causes the cells in the liver to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood, which helps reduce the overall amount of bad cholesterol in the body.

The actions of Pravastatin reduced risk of heart disease, stroke and death caused by high cholesterol.

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How do I take Pravastatin?

You should take one tablet of Pravastatin a day in the evenings.

Pravastatin can be taken with or without food. Aim to take it at the same time each day. Statins like Pravastatin are usually taken for life.

Your doctor may prescribe Pravastatin alongside a cholesterol absorption inhibitor, such as Ezetimibe.

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Pravastatin Side Effects and Cautions

Before you begin taking Pravastatin, you must read the accompanying patient information leaflet. This leaflet contains instructions on how to use, store and discard the medicine, as well as important information regarding its safety.

If you have doubts or concerns about any of the information presented in the patient information leaflet, our online prescribers are at hand to discuss them with you. You can also speak to your doctor or a pharmacist.

Side effects of Pravastatin

Every medicine can cause side effects - even those bought over the counter. However, just because a side effect is listed, it doesn't mean that you will experience it.

Despite this, it's important to remain vigilant of any side effects throughout your course of treatment with Pravastatin.

Possible side effects of Pravastatin may include:

• Breathing problems (persistent cough, shortness of breath)
• Depression
• Dermatomyositis (inflammation of the skin and muscles)
• Memory loss
• Nightmare

This is not a full list of side effects associated with Pravastatin. Further information regarding the safety of Pravastatin, including a complete list of side effects, can be found within the patient information leaflet.

Allergies

Do not take Pravastatin if you are allergic to pravastatin or any of the other ingredients listed within the patient information leaflet.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Do not take Pravastatin if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or plan on becoming pregnant. The safety of Pravastatin has not been established in pregnant women.

Do not take Pravastatin if you are breastfeeding. This is because a small amount of Pravastatin can be passed on to your child while breastfeeding.

Other safety information

Always read the enclosed patient information leaflet before you start taking Pravastatin.

Inform our online prescribers of all other medicines you are currently taking. This includes medicines prescribed by your doctor, or bought over the counter, as well as health and herbal supplements.

Do not take Pravastatin past the expiry date printed on the packaging.

Never throw away medicine via household or water waste, as this can harm the environment. Instead, take any unwanted medicine to your local pharmacy and ask them to dispose it safely on your behalf.

Always store Pravastatin tablets out of sight and reach from children and pets.

Store Pravastatin tablets in a cool, dry place with a temperature below 25°C. Keep the packaging away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Never share your Pravastatin with anybody else - even if they are experiencing the same symptoms or have been diagnosed with the same condition as you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I forget to take Pravastatin when I should?

If you forget to take your daily dose of Pravastatin, simple continue to take your tablet at the correct time the following day. If you forget to take more than one tablet, consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice. It’s a good idea to set a reminder on your phone so you don’t forget.

What should I do if I take too much Pravastatin?

If you have taken too much Pravastatin, you should contact your GP or pharmacist for advice. Alternatively, call the NHS 111 line, who will be able to assist you without an appointment.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Pravastatin?

While it is advisable that you avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol if on Pravastatin, drinking low units should not be problematic. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice on drinking while on Pravastatin.

Will Pravastatin impact my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Taking Pravastatin should not affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. However, it is always advisable that you seek a doctor or pharmacists advice if you are concerned.

Will Pravastatin cause weight gain?

Some people taking Pravastatin may experience a change in weight, such as weight loss or weight gain.

If you notice a significant change in your weight while taking Pravastatin, speak to your doctor.

Can I eat grapefruit while taking Pravastatin?

Speak to your doctor before drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit if you are taking Pravastatin.

Will Pravastatin interfere with my contraception?

Pravastatin does not interact with contraceptive pills, including the combined contraceptive and the morning after pill.

If you vomit or experience diarrhoea after taking Pravastatin, it might affect your contraceptive pill. Read the patient information leaflet enclosed with your contraceptive pill to see what to do if this occurs.

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