Statins: Benefits and Side Effects

Statins are a class of medications commonly used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. They work by blocking the action of a liver enzyme responsible for producing cholesterol.

Statins FAQ

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What are statins used for?

Last updated on April 17, 2023. What are Statins? Statins (also called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) block an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase) that is involved in the synthesis of mevalonate, a naturally occurring substance that is used by the body to make sterols, including cholesterol.

How do statins work?

They work by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol. Lowering cholesterol isn't the only benefit associated with statins. These medications have also been linked to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. These drugs may help stabilize the plaques on blood vessel walls and reduce the risk of certain blood clots.

What are the different types of statins?

Statins include atorvastatin (Lipitor), fluvastatin (Lescol XL), lovastatin (Altoprev), pitavastatin (Livalo), pravastatin, rosuvastatin (Crestor) and simvastatin (Zocor). Having too much cholesterol in the blood increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Statins block an enzyme the liver needs to make cholesterol.

What are the facts about statins?

Statin’ the facts. 5 facts about statins 1. They work If you’re at high risk, s tatins can reduce your chance of a heart attack or stroke by 20%. 2. They’re safe [Illustration of road with street signs going by with the word ‘safe’] Over 20 years of safety data suggests most side effects are mild and temporary. 3. Sore muscles