Statins are a group of prescription medicines that people take to bring their cholesterol down to normal levels. They are also known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. Statins work by blocking a substance that the body needs to make cholesterol, which helps the liver make less cholesterol. Statins can decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol by 50% or more. They can also help the liver get rid of more cholesterol and reabsorb the cholesterol in the arteries, which could be causing blockages. Statins can also lower triglycerides (blood fats) and raise good cholesterol (HDL) levels. By doing this, the lower cholesterol levels may prevent heart disease or strokes.

Different brands of statins are available, as well as generic statins, which cost less. Some common names of statins are atorvastatin, simvastatin, rosuvastatin, pravastatin, and lovastatin. Statins are tablets or capsules that you swallow whole once a day. The label on your medicine bottle will tell you if you need to take your statin at a certain time of day and if you need to take it with food. Sometimes, statins are put together with another medicine in one pill.

Most people can take statins without bad side effects. However, statins can sometimes interact with other medicines, increasing the risk of serious side effects, such as muscle damage. Some types of statin can also interact with grapefruit juice. Its very important to read the information leaflet that comes with your medicine to check if there are any interactions you should be aware of. If in doubt, contact a GP or pharmacist for advice. Statins are not recommended for pregnant patients or those with active or chronic liver disease.