Your DNA: Pharmacogenomics & Cholesterol

Pravastatin :

Pravastatin is a medication used mainly to lower cholesterol levels in the body. It belongs to a group of drugs known as statins, which act by inhibiting an enzyme involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver. Developed from the microbial transformation of mevastatin, the first statin discovered, pravastatin has a unique structure that allows it to be potent without the need for activation in the body.

Unlike some other statins, pravastatin is known for its lower potency combined with increased hydrophilicity. This implies that it is more water soluble and less likely to cross lipophilic (fat soluble) membranes of peripheral cells. This property makes pravastatin particularly selective for liver tissue where cholesterol production needs to be regulated. This selectivity is believed to lead to fewer side effects compared to other statins, such as lovastatin and simvastatin, making it a convenient option for patients at risk for side effects.

Pravastatin's targeted action in the liver enhances its effectiveness in reducing the amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood. Lowering cholesterol levels is vital for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack and stroke. As a result, pravastatin's ability to lower cholesterol with a reduced risk of side effects further supports its use in the long-term management of high cholesterol, thereby enhancing the overall aim of improving heart health and reducing cardiovascular risk.