Statins are a class of prescription medications that lower cholesterol levels in the blood, particularly the "bad" cholesterol known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL). They work by inhibiting an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase in the liver, which is essential for cholesterol production. By reducing cholesterol synthesis in the liver, statins help prevent cholesterol from building up in the walls of arteries, thereby lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. They are commonly prescribed for people at high risk of these conditions or who have already developed cardiovascular disease. Besides lowering LDL cholesterol, statins have other beneficial effects like reducing inflammation in the arteries and helping stabilize arterial plaques. However, statins can have side effects, including muscle pain and a small increased risk of diabetes.
What Statins Do
- Lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels
- Reduce cholesterol synthesis in the liver by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase enzyme
- Help prevent plaque buildup in arteries, reducing heart attack and stroke risk
- Have anti-inflammatory and plaque-stabilizing effects in blood vessels
Uses of Statins
- Prescribed for high-risk individuals for cardiovascular disease
- Used in both primary prevention (before disease develops) and secondary prevention (after heart attack or stroke)
- Often recommended together with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise
Common Statins
- Atorvastatin
- Rosuvastatin
- Simvastatin
- Pravastatin
- Lovastatin
Side Effects
- Muscle aches or pain
- Increased risk of diabetes in some people
- Rarely, serious muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis)
Statins are considered essential medicines and are widely prescribed globally due to their effectiveness in preventing cardiovascular-related events.
