Guidelines for Statin Therapy

Statins are a type of drug that treats high cholesterol. They cut down cholesterol production by the liver by blocking an enzyme necessary to make it. High levels of cholesterol can lead to heart disease and stroke as it creates plaque in arteries that limits blood flow. Statins not only help break down the plaque in the arteries but also lower your chances of heart disease and stroke.

Different Drugs

• Not all statins are the same and your doctor will help you determine which one is right for you. The most powerful ones are Lipitor and Crestor, used for people with very high cholesterol, while Lescol is the least powerful. Also, different statins interact with different drugs. It is important that you provide your doctor with a list of all drugs you are taking before choosing the correct statin, as some other drugs may also block liver enzymes.

Side Effects

• Though statins are well-tolerated, there are also some side effects. Common symptoms include headache, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, skin rash and muscle aches. In rare instances, serious side effects include liver failure and rhabdomyolysis, which is damage to the muscles. Rhabdomyolysis most often occurs when there is an interaction with another drug. This is a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure and death. If you are feeling muscle or pain joint while taking statins, it is important to talk to your doctor immediately.

Taking Statins

• According to the Mayo Clinic, statins have other positive benefits on the body such as anti-inflammatory properties. This is beneficial because it helps maintain the health of your blood vessels which, in turn, keeps the organs of your body healthy and nourished. Two other direct advantages of healthy blood vessels are lower blood pressure and a lower risk of heart attack. Currently, research is being conducted to determine whether statins can prevent other conditions such as cancer, arthritis and risk of dementia.