About..."Statins"

Statins are a group of prescription drugs which lower cholesterol by decreasing the production of cholesterol in the liver. They work by blocking the enzyme in the liver that is responsible for making cholesterol. As a group, they are among the most commonly prescribed drugs today. Studies have shown that they reduce the risk of heart attack in persons with high cholesterol Some examples of statins are: atorvastatin (Lipitor®), fluvastatin (Lescol®), lovastatin (Mevacor®), pravastatin (Pravachol®), rosuvastatin (Crestor®) and simvastatin (Zocor®).

Cholesterol contributes to the development of atherosclerosis, the process where plaques form in the arteries. These plaques can reduce the blood flow to critical areas in the body and result in many problems, including peripheral arterial disease (PAD), cerebrovascular disease and heart disease. Blood clots can also form on the plaque and can lead to a stroke or heart attack. It is important to have medications to control cholesterol production.

Statins are used for the treatment or prevention of atherosclerosis in people at risk for atherosclerosis. Risk factors include: high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, family history, increased age, diabetes and smoking. Most people are placed on statins because their cholesterol levels are high. They may be given to individuals with heart disease or diabetes even if their cholesterol levels are not that high. Statins lower the "bad" (LDL) cholesterol, lower the triglycerides and may slightly increase the "good" (HDL) cholesterol. In addition, they reduce the size of plaques in the arteries, stabilize the plaques and reduce inflammation. Some new research suggests they may also decrease blood clot formation.

Statins have many side effects. These include: nausea, gas, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, rash and sleep disturbance. Statins may cause liver enzymes to go up so blood tests may be required to check for this. Very rarely they can cause muscle pain and weakness. This generally goes away when the medication is stopped. It is something that should be reported to the patient's health-care provider right away. There are a few reports of difficulty concentrating or thinking, but these are rare.

Statins do interact with other medications so it is important for your health-care provider to know all of the medications you are on. Some interactions can increase the risks of side effects.

It is important that you take your medication as prescribed and that you tell your health-care provider if you have any problems with any medications. They will help you in your fight against atherosclerosis.