Compare Pravastatin vs. Livalo

Pravastatin (Pravachol) and pitavastatin (Livalo) are both statins used to lower cholesterol, but they have some key differences. Pravastatin is available as a generic, making it a more affordable option, while Livalo does not have a generic form and can be expensive if not covered by insurance. Pravastatin is taken once daily, usually at night, and is known to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. In contrast, Livalo can be taken at any time of day but has not been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. Livalo is often chosen for people who have not tolerated other statins well due to muscle pain, as it has fewer drug interactions and is less likely to cause muscle and kidney damage. Both medications require you to follow a heart-healthy diet and exercise routine to be most effective. Neither is safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.