Pravigard PAC

Why should Pravigard PAC not be prescribed?

Do not take Pravigard PAC if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Pravachol, aspirin, or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Also, you may be more likely to have an allergic reaction to this drug if you have asthma or asthma-related conditions such as rhinitis and nasal polyps.

Because Pravigard PAC contains aspirin, children and teenagers should not use this product because of the risk of Reye's syndrome, a dangerous disorder characterized by disorientation, lethargy, and eventually coma.

In addition, you should not use Pravigard PAC if you have liver disease, ulcers or ulcer symptoms, or if you are taking a medication that affects the clotting of your blood, unless specifically told to do so by your doctor.

Because the aspirin component of Pravigard PAC contains salt, you should not use this drug if you have a condition that causes you to retain salt, such as congestive heart failure or kidney disease.

You should not use Pravigard PAC if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Special warnings about Pravigard PAC

The drug manufacturer of Pravigard PAC recommends liver function testing before using this drug. In addition, the doctor will need to monitor you closely if you have kidney problems.

Be sure to report any muscle aches or weakness to your doctor immediately (see "Most important fact about this drug").

If you have more than 3 alcoholic drinks per day, check with your doctor before using Pravigard PAC, since this could increase the chance of internal bleeding.

Be aware that the aspirin component of Pravigard PAC could raise your risk of developing ulcers or internal bleeding, especially if you also have an inherited bleeding disorder such as hemophilia. Call your doctor immediately if you develop stomach pain, chronic heartburn, nausea, or vomiting.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Pravigard PAC

If Pravigard PAC is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Pravigard PAC with any of the drugs listed below. Also check the interactions listed in the individual Pravachol and aspirin drug profiles.

Possible interactions with Pravachol include:

Cholestyramine (Questran)
Colestipol (Colestid)
Diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor, Tiazac)
Erythromycin (E.E.S., Erythrocin, others)
Gemfibrozil (Lopid)
Itraconazole (Sporanox)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Mibefradil