Hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitor

Hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitor

Hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors, commonly known asstatins, are a class of lipid-lowering medications that are used to reduce cardiovascular disease and manage abnormal lipid levels. They are the most commonly prescribed drugs for lowering cholesterol.

Mechanism of Action

Statins work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a central role in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, statins effectively reduce the synthesis of cholesterol, leading to a decrease in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood. This reduction in LDL cholesterol is associated with a decreased risk of atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke.

Clinical Uses

Statins are primarily used for:

• Primary prevention: To prevent cardiovascular disease in individuals with high cholesterol levels but no history of cardiovascular events.
• Secondary prevention: To prevent further cardiovascular events in individuals who have already experienced events such as heart attacks or strokes.

Common Statins

Some of the most commonly prescribed statins include:

• Atorvastatin (Lipitor)
• Simvastatin (Zocor)
• Rosuvastatin (Crestor)
• Pravastatin (Pravachol)
• Lovastatin (Mevacor)

Side Effects

While statins are generally well-tolerated, they can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include:

• Muscle pain or weakness
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Increased risk of diabetes

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Rhabdomyolysis: A severe breakdown of muscle tissue
• Liver damage

Contraindications

Statins are contraindicated in:

• Patients with active liver disease
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women

Monitoring

Patients on statins should have their liver function monitored regularly, and lipid levels should be checked to ensure the medication is effective.

Also see

• Cholesterol
• Lipid-lowering agent
• Cardiovascular disease
• Atherosclerosis