[Pravastatin: pharmacological action, pleiotropic effects and efficacy in prevention of atherosclerosis]

Abstract

This literature review presents data on pharmacological action of pravastatin, its lipid lowering activity, and influence on main mechanisms of atherogenesis. Beneficial pleiotropic (nonlipid) effects of pravastatin: normalization of endothelial function, antiinflammatory action, antiischemic- and antithrombotic effects are also described. These effects represent possible mechanisms of participation of pravastatin in stabilization of prone to rupture atheromatous plaques. Early and pronounced clinical efficacy of pravastatin demonstrated in trials with clinical endpoints is discussed and value of the drug for primary and secondary prevention of atherosclerosis stressed.