statin

statin A class of drugs that lower blood cholesterol. The major effect of the statins is that they lower LDL cholesterol levels; in fact, they lower LDL cholesterol more than any other type of drugs. Statins inhibit an enzyme, HMG-CoA reductase, that controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body. This slows the production of cholesterol. They also increase the liver’s ability to remove the LDL cholesterol already in the blood. Studies have reported 20 to 60 percent lower LDL cholesterol levels in patients on these drugs, as well as modest increases in HDL cholesterol and reduced triglyceride levels. Such reductions should prevent many heart attacks and deaths due to heart disease. Statins are usually given in a single dose at the evening meal or at bedtime, taking advantage of the fact that the body makes more cholesterol at night than during the day. Results should be seen after several weeks, with a maximum effect in 4 to 6 weeks. Serious side effects are rare, but a few patients experience upset stomach, gas, constipation, and abdominal pain or cramps. Rarely, patients on statins develop liver blood test abnormalities or muscle soreness, pain, and weakness as side effects of muscle problems.