Pravachol Flashcards

Study Notes

Pravastatin Overview

Brand name: Pravachol(R)
Generic name: Pravastatin Sodium
Drug class: Antihyperlipidemic

Indications

Treats hyperlipidemia
Reduces risk of myocardial infarction (MI)
Lowers coronary death rates
Aids in myocardial revascularization procedures
Specifically indicated for:
- Elevated total and LDL cholesterol
- Apolipoprotein B
- Triglyceride levels in primary hypercholesterolemia
- Mixed dyslipidemia
- Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia

Mechanism of Action (MoA)

Functions as an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor
Decreases cholesterol synthesis from mevalonate
Lowers LDL levels and raises HDL levels while maintaining necessary cholesterol production

Dosing Information

Initial dose: 10 to 20 mg once daily, preferably at bedtime
Maximum daily dose: 40 mg

Contraindications

Not suitable for pregnant or lactating women
Patients with liver disease
Elevated liver enzymes (AST or ALT)

Pregnancy Category

Category X: Proven fetal risk and contraindicated during pregnancy

Patient Counseling

Avoid alcohol consumption
Do not double doses if a dose is missed
Shield from overexposure to sunlight
Contact healthcare provider if experiencing symptoms of myopathy
Avoid pregnancy during treatment

Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs)

Common side effects include:
- Rash
- Muscle pain (myalgia)
- Headache (HA)
- Dyspepsia
- Influenza-like symptoms

Drug Interactions

Caution with:
- Gemfibrozil: May cause severe myopathy or rhabdomyolysis
- Nicotinic acid
- Erythromycin
- Immunosuppressive agents
Coadministration with cholestyramine or colestipol can enhance lipid-lowering effects, but absorption may decrease. These medications should be taken 1 hour before or 4 hours after pravastatin.
Grapefruit juice has minimal effect on plasma levels.

Additional Patient Considerations

Consult with healthcare provider immediately if symptoms of myopathy occur, especially if accompanied by pain or fever.
Adhere to prescribed diet and limit sun exposure—use sunscreen when necessary.
Avoid alcohol; store in a cool, dry place and out of reach of children.
If a dose is missed, take as soon as remembered, unless it's close to the next scheduled dose—skip the missed dose in that case.

Description

Test your knowledge on Pravastatin, commonly known as Pravachol. This quiz covers its indications, drug class, dosing guidelines, and contraindications. Perfect for healthcare professionals and students looking to enhance their understanding of this important antihyperlipidemic medication.

Pravachol Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What is the generic name for Pravachol?

What is the primary drug class of Pravastatin?

What are the indications for using Pravastatin?

The maximum dosing for Pravastatin is __ mg per day.

Pravastatin is contraindicated in patients who are pregnant.

What should patients avoid while taking Pravastatin?

What is the mechanism of action (MoA) of Pravastatin?

What are some common adverse effects of Pravastatin?

Grapefruit juice has a significant effect on the plasma levels of Pravastatin.

Which of the following medications can increase the risk of myopathy when taken with Pravastatin?

Patients should consult a doctor immediately if they become __________ during treatment with Pravastatin.