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Statin Drugs Facts

Statin drugs are used to prevent heart disease that is the result of elevated cholesterol in the blood. Before you get prescribed this medication, there are a couple considerations taken by your doctor such as you lifestyle habits and a history of cardiovascular disease running in your family.

  1. Significance

    • According to the Centers for Disease Control, heart disease in is the number one killer of adults in the United States.

    Function

    • Stain drugs work by blocking a cholesterol forming substance in the body and they also reduce plaque that has built up on the walls of the arteries.

    Types

    • There are several varieties of statin drugs on the market. Some of these include Zocor, Pravachol and Crestor.

    Risk Factors

    • Some risk factors that can lead to a prescription of statin drugs include elevated cholesterol levels, age, smoking and being overweight.

    Considerations

    • If your cholesterol levels go down while taking a statin and you stop using it, your levels will soon go back up.

    Warning

    • Taking statin drugs can cause some side effects. Some of these include liver damage, intestinal problems and sore muscles and joints.

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