Pravastatin, a member of the statin family, primarily reduces cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme plays a crucial role in cholesterol biosynthesis within the liver. By blocking HMG-CoA reductase, pravastatin decreases the liver’s production of cholesterol.
Increased LDL Receptor Activity
This reduction in cholesterol synthesis triggers a compensatory mechanism: the liver increases the number of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) receptors on its surface. More LDL receptors mean the liver actively removes more LDL cholesterol–often called “bad” cholesterol–from the bloodstream. This leads to lower LDL cholesterol levels.
Impact on Other Lipids
Pravastatin’s effects extend beyond LDL cholesterol. It also modestly raises HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol–the “good” cholesterol–and reduces triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood. These combined actions contribute to a more favorable lipid profile, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
