Pravastatin and Lipitor are both cholesterol-lowering medications, but they belong to different classes of drugs. Lipitor is a statin drug that works by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver, while Pravastatin is a statin drug that works by reducing the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed from the food we eat [1][2]. Both drugs are used to lower the levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is also known as the "bad" cholesterol, and to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
According to a comparison of the two drugs on Drugs.com, Lipitor is generally considered to be more effective at lowering LDL cholesterol levels than Pravastatin [3]. However, Pravastatin is generally considered to be safer and has fewer side effects than Lipitor [2]. Some of the common side effects of Lipitor include muscle pain, weakness, and liver damage, while the most common side effects of Pravastatin include headache, dizziness, and stomach pain [2][3].
It is important to note that the choice of medication depends on the individual patient's medical history, current health status, and other factors. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate medication for each individual patient.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LIPITOR
[2] https://www.singlecare.com/blog/pravastatin-vs-lipitor/
[3] https://www.drugs.com/compare/pravastatin