Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Comparator: pravastatin

Pravastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol synthesis, thereby reducing LDL cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk.

Pravastatin inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol synthesis, thereby reducing LDL cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk. Used for Hypercholesterolemia, Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease, Secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with established coronary heart disease.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Pravastatin is a statin that competitively inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, blocking the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate in the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway. This leads to decreased hepatic cholesterol production, upregulation of LDL receptors on hepatocytes, and enhanced clearance of LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. The resulting reduction in circulating LDL cholesterol and triglycerides reduces atherosclerotic plaque formation and cardiovascular events.

Approved indications

• Hypercholesterolemia
• Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease
• Secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with established coronary heart disease

Common side effects

• Myalgia (muscle pain)
• Elevated liver enzymes (ALT/AST)
• Rhabdomyolysis
• Headache
• Nausea

Key clinical trials

• A 12 Week Study of MK0653A in Patients Who Have Been Hospitalized for a Possible Heart Problem (0653A-808) (PHASE3)
• Vytorin on Carotid Intima-media Thickness and Overall Rigidity (PHASE4)
• Primary Prevention of Major Adverse Cardiac Events (MACE) With Standard and Intensive Statin Treatment in Patients With Diabetes: Survival and Cardiovascular Event Assessments (NA)
• The Effects of Pravastatin and Rosuvastatin on Coronary Plaques in Patients With Stable Angina Pectoris (PHASE4)

Primary sources

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