Pravastatin is a commonly prescribed medicine in the UK, used for high cholesterol. If you have just been prescribed pravastatin, this page explains what it is, the brands and strengths it comes in, how to take it, and how to have it dispensed and delivered free on the NHS with PillSorted.
This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: 2 July 2026.
What is pravastatin?
Pravastatin is a statin that lowers cholesterol to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Brands and strengths
Pravastatin is the name of the active ingredient. In the UK it is sold as generic pravastatin and under the brand name Lipostat — both contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. Common strengths:
- Pravastatin 10 mg tablets
- Pravastatin 20 mg tablets
- Pravastatin 40 mg tablets
- UK brand: Lipostat
What pravastatin is used for
- High cholesterol
- Prevention of heart attack and stroke
How to take pravastatin
Usually taken once a day at night, with or without food. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions (BNF).
Side effects
Common effects include headache, tiredness and mild stomach upset. Report unexplained muscle pain to a clinician. This is not a full list — see the patient information leaflet (BNF).
Pravastatin: frequently asked questions
Yes. Lipostat is a brand name for pravastatin; the generic is the same active ingredient.
Grapefruit is less of an issue with pravastatin than simvastatin, but always follow your prescriber’s advice.
Yes. If you have an NHS prescription for pravastatin, you can nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy and we will dispense and deliver it to your door for free.
Get your pravastatin delivered free on the NHS
If you have an NHS prescription for pravastatin, PillSorted dispenses and delivers it to your door — completely free. Nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy once, and we take care of your repeat prescriptions from then on.
What you get
- Free delivery, every time — your medicine posted to your door, always free.
- Your whole family, one account — manage everyone’s prescriptions in one place.
- Real pharmacists, every prescription — every order checked by our UK pharmacist team.
How it works
- Choose PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy
- We collect your prescription from your GP
- Your medication is delivered free to your door
Sources: NICE; BNF — Pravastatin.
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or pharmacist. Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed. For advice about your own health, consult a clinician.