Pravastatin

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Pravastatin (brand name Pravachol) — Antihyperlipidemic; Statin.

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Antihyperlipidemic.
• Pharmacologic class: Statin.

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Same statin mechanism; not metabolized by CYP3A4, so fewer interactions.
• Onset / peak / duration: Onset about 1 to 2 weeks; peak 4 weeks.
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Half-life about 2 to 3 hours; no routine level.

Clinical use

• Indications: Hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular prevention.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: 10 to 80 mg PO once daily.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Max 80 mg/day; start low in significant renal/hepatic impairment.

Safety

• Contraindications: Active liver disease, pregnancy, lactation.
• Black box warning: None.
• Interactions: Fewer than other statins; fibrates and cyclosporine increase myopathy risk; red yeast rice.
• Pregnancy / lactation: Contraindicated.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: Myalgia, headache, GI upset.
• Serious effects to report: Rhabdomyolysis, hepatotoxicity.
• Antidote / reversal: None.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Lipids, LFTs, pregnancy status.
• Interventions during therapy: May give without regard to meals or grapefruit.
• Monitor: Lipids, LFTs, CK if symptomatic.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: LDL at goal.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Often chosen when interactions are a concern.
• Notify provider if: Muscle pain, dark urine, jaundice.
• Administration tips: Any time daily; food not required.