National League for Nursing (NLN) Medication Practice Exam

Myalgia, or muscle pain, is a well-documented common side effect associated with the use of pravastatin (Pravachol), which is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels. Statins, including pravastatin, work by inhibiting an enzyme involved in cholesterol production in the liver. While they are effective at reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and improving cardiovascular outcomes, they can also cause muscle-related side effects in some patients.

Patients taking pravastatin may experience varying degrees of muscle pain, soreness, or weakness, which can sometimes lead to more serious conditions such as rhabdomyolysis, although this is rare. Monitoring for muscle symptoms is important, and patients are advised to report any unusual muscle discomfort to their healthcare provider.

Other potential side effects of pravastatin may vary but are not as prevalent as myalgia. For example, hypertension is not a typical side effect of this medication; in fact, some patients may experience improvements in blood pressure as a result of improved cholesterol levels. Tachycardia and tremors are also not commonly associated with statin use and do not reflect the established side effects of pravastatin. Thus, myalgia stands out as the correct answer in