Overview
Reviewed by Joe Maloney, M.D.
Statins are a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol levels that may lead to heart attack and stroke if left untreated. They can be highly effective in reducing levels of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol. In clinical studies, statins are well tolerated.
Detailed Description
Statin drugs work by blocking an enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood. The enzyme is called hydroxy-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA reductase for short). Thus, statins are referred to as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.
A certain amount of cholesterol is necessary for healthy function in the body – but cholesterol also contributes to atherosclerosis, which is the build-up of unhealthy plaque in the arteries. Plaque is a fatty substance that can create blockages which lead to heart attack, stroke, and symptoms such as angina (chest pain). Statins help prevent blockages and reduce the probability that existing plaques will rupture or grow.
Statin therapy decreases the level of LDL or “bad” cholesterol (thus named because it tends to be deposited on artery walls and contribute to atherosclerosis) quite effectively for most people. HDL, or “good” cholesterol, which carries excess cholesterol back to the liver for outprocessing, is not affected by most statin therapy.
Research suggests that inflammation also plays a role in the development of atherosclerosis, and that the statins decrease inflammation. Improvement can often be seen in just a few weeks. Side effects are few: some common ones include nausea, diarrhea, headache and in very rare cases, liver problems. Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol. Liver function levels can be checked periodically if you are taking a statin.
There are several drugs in the statin class, the most familiar of which is perhaps atorvastatin (Lipitor). Rosuvastatin (Crestor) and simvastatin (Zocor) are also popular. Talk to your doctor about which drug is right for you. It is always best to couple pharmacologic treatment with lifestyle modifications such as eating right and exercising.
Last updated: 15-Mar-07
