Pravastatin Sodium

PRAVASTATIN - ORAL (PRAV-uh-stat-in)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pravachol

USES: Pravastatin is used to improve cholesterol and fats in the blood to help prevent heart attacks and strokes.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: This medication is usually taken once daily, with or without food. It may take a few weeks to months before the full effects of this medication are noticed. This drug must be taken regularly to keep cholesterol at recommended levels.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, gas, heartburn, change of taste, diarrhea, constipation, skin rash, headache, dizziness or blurred vision may occur the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify MD promptly if you experience: muscle aches/pain, fever, unusual tiredness or weakness, vision changes, yellowing eyes or skin. If this medication makes you dizzy or lightheaded, avoid driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, alcohol use, low thyroid function, allergies (especially drug allergies). Limit alcohol intake, as this may aggravate drug side effects. This drug must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Due to the possible serious harm this drug may cause to a child, avoid breast-feeding while using this drug. Consult your doctor and pharmacist.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: warfarin, cyclosporine, erythromycin, gemfibrozil, cholestyramine, niacin, azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

NOTES: Your doctor may periodically perform lab tests during treatment to monitor your progress. For best results, exercise regularly and follow a doctor- approved, low-fat, low-cholesterol diet.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the doses.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom.