Avoid pravastatin if you have a history of liver disease, especially active liver disease. Your doctor needs to monitor your liver function regularly while you’re on this medication.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding require special attention. Pravastatin might harm a developing fetus or pass into breast milk; discuss these concerns thoroughly with your doctor before using pravastatin.
Certain muscle disorders increase the risk of rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) when taking statins like pravastatin. If you have a personal or family history of muscle weakness, pain, or myopathy, inform your doctor immediately. This includes conditions like muscular dystrophy.
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice interact negatively with pravastatin, increasing blood levels of the drug. Avoid grapefruit while taking pravastatin to prevent potentially dangerous side effects.
Some medications interact poorly with pravastatin. Always provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you take. This prevents dangerous drug interactions.
Allergic reactions are possible. If you experience symptoms like rash, itching, or swelling, stop taking pravastatin and seek medical attention immediately.
Consult your physician before starting pravastatin or any medication. This information is for guidance only and does not substitute for personalized medical advice.
