Pravastatin 20 mg tablets is a widely prescribed medication to control high cholesterol levels in patients. It belongs to the class of the statins and acts inhibiting the enzyme involved in the synthesis of cholesterol, thus reducing the total production of cholesterol in the body.
Main characteristics of pravastatin 20 mg tablet:
- Category: statin
- Dose: 20 mg
- Indication: High cholesterol control
- Mechanism of action: inhibition of the synthesis of cholesterol synthesis
- Common brands: pravachol, lipostat
Pravastatin 20 mg tablet is usually prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes changes in lifestyle, such as the adoption of a healthy diet and regular practice of physical exercise. This medicine helps reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases by decreasing LDL levels (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides, while increasing HDL levels (good cholesterol).
Important information: Pravastatin 20 mg tablets should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is essential to respect the prescribed dose and follow all the instructions of the health professional. Report to your doctor of any disease that suffers, especially liver diseases or any history of pain or muscle weakness. Also, mention any medication that is currently taking, since certain drugs can interact with pravastatin.
| Common Side Effects of Pravastatina 20 mg Compressed: | Serious Pravastatin 20 mg Side effects: |
|---|---|
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If you experience any serious or persistent side effect while taking pravastatin 20 mg tablets, look for medical attention immediately. It is important to keep in mind that pravastatin is not suitable for everyone, and it is essential to consult your medical care provider to determine if this medicine is appropriate for you.
Dosage and Administration Guidelines
DOSIFICATION RECOMMENDATIONS:
- The recommended initial dose of pravastatin is 20 mg orally once a day.
- For patients who require a greater reduction in low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), the dose can be increased to a maximum daily dose of 40 mg.
- In elderly patients or renal failure, the initial dose should be adjusted based on individual tolerability and response to treatment.
Specific dose adjustments should be carried out under the supervision of a healthcare professional, taking into account the patient’s lipid profile and treatment objectives. As pravastatin has a long hal f-life, it is generally recommended to periodically control lipid levels and liver function to evaluate the response to treatment and safety.
Important information: pravastatin should be administered with caution in patients with liver disease, since it can cause elevations of liver enzymes. Hepatic function tests must be performed before starting the treatment and subsequently periodically. If significant elevations of liver function tests occur, the dose should be reduced or suspended.
| Population | Dose adjustment |
|---|---|
| Renal insufficiency | Decrease dose according to renal function |
| Elderly patients (& GT; 70 years) | Consider starting with a lower dose and adjust as necessary |
It is important to advise patients about the correct administration of pravastatin. Tablets must be taken whole, without crushing or chewing, and can be taken with or without food. Compliance with the prescribed positive pattern is essential to achieve optimal therapeutic results. In addition, patients who follow a cardiosaludable diet and modify their lifestyle should be advised, such as exercising regularly and quitting smoking, to further favor the control of their lipid profile.
Important Drug Interactions to Consider
1. Cyclosporine: The simultaneous use of Pravastatin with cyclosporine, a medication used to suppress the immune system, must be approached with caution. The combination of these two medications can increase the risk of muscle damage and kidney problems. Patients who have cyclosporine should be closely monitored to detect signs of muscle pain, weakness or renal dysfunction while taking pravastatin.
2. Warfarin: pravastatin can interact with warfarin, an anticoagulant medication that is usually prescribed to prevent blood clots. The combination of these medications can increase the risk of bleeding. It is important that health personnel control the patient coagulation factors and adjust the warfarin dose as necessary. Patients should be advised to inform their healthcare professional of any sign of unusual hematoma, bleeding or prolonged bleeding time.
| Interaction with other medications | Effect |
|---|---|
| Cyclosporine | Increased risk of muscle injuries and kidney problems |
| Warfarin | Increased risk of bleeding |
“The combination of pravastatin and cyclosporine should be used with caution due to the potential for muscle damage and kidney problems.”
“Patients who take pravastatin and warfarin should be closely monitored to detect hemorrhagic complications.”
It is essential that health professionals thoroughly review the patient’s medication history before prescribing pravastatin 20 mg compressed to minimize the risk of pharmacological interactions. In addition, patients should be educated about the importance of informing of any new medication or supplement that begin to take while they are taking pravastatin to guarantee their safety and optimize the results of the treatment.
