Pravachol

I have been taking Pravachol for three weeks and am experiencing chest, neck and leg pains and dizzyness. I spoke with my doctor's office and they said to dicontinue until my appointment next week. The pains and dizziness come and go but are worse once I lie down at night. Should these symptoms subside quickly? Should I push for an earlier appointment? Thank you!

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Dear Patty,

Pravachol (pravastatin) is a cholesterol lowering drug that is used for individuals with high cholesterol.  It works by blocking the pathway that the body uses to produce cholesterol.  It is in general a very safe and well tolerated drug.  However, as with any drug, there are potential side effects.  The most common side effects are an elevation in the liver enzymes.  This can only be detected with blood tests. If the enzymes are elevated high enough it may be necessary to discontinue the drue. Rarely an inflammation of the muscles, called myositis, can occur.  This presents as muscle aches and cramps and can be confirmed by a blood test.  If this occurs discontinuation of the drug is necessary. With cessation of the drug the myositis resolves quickly.  Dizziness is not a typical side effect of pravachol.  I would agree with your doctor that you stop the drug for now.  Side-effects of the drug shouldn't persist for very long so if you are still having symptoms something else may be going on.  If your symptoms persist I would call you doctor for an earlier appointment or go to your local emergency room.