Drug class
Statins
Also called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors
Lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
How it works
Statins block an enzyme in the liver that makes cholesterol. With less cholesterol being made, the liver pulls more LDL out of the blood, lowering the levels you'd see on a lipid panel.
What it treats
High LDL cholesterol, prevention of heart attack and stroke in people with diabetes, prior cardiovascular events, or elevated risk.
Common side effects
Muscle aches, mild stomach upset, occasional joint pain. Rare but serious: unexplained muscle weakness with dark urine (rhabdomyolysis), liver enzyme elevation.
Worth knowing
Avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice with most statins (especially atorvastatin, simvastatin, lovastatin).
Drugs in this class
Educational only. Not medical advice. Always confirm with your prescriber or pharmacist.