The statins are the most widely used, and also the most powerful medications for lowering LDL cholesterol. Numerous large, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, , clinical trials (controlled trials) have shown that statins reduce heart attacks (and strokes) and improve survival. Statins are well tolerated with low side effect rates when used long term. Statins not only lower blood LDL cholesterol levels, they also modestly increase HDL cholesterol levels and modestly decrease triglyceride levels. The statins that are now on pharmacy shelves in the U.S. (putting the generic name first followed by the brand name in parentheses) are:
rosuvastatin ( Crestor)
fluvastatin sodium (Lescol) made by Novartis
atorvastatin calcium (Lipitor) made by Parke-Davis and Pfizer
lovastatin (Mevacor) made by Merck
pravastatin sodium (Pravachol) made by Bristol-Myers Squibb
simvastatin (Zocor) made by Merck
pitavastatin (Livalo) made by Kowa Company Ltd.
Studies have consistently shown that lowering LDL cholesterol with diet and statins reduces the risk of a second heart attack. The prevention of recurrent heart attacks in patients who have already suffered a heart attack is called secondary prevention.
Studies have also demonstrated that reducing LDL cholesterol with lifestyle changes and statins reduces the risk of having the first heart attack. Prevention of heart attacks in those who have never had a heart attack is called primary prevention.
Studies have also confirmed that reducing LDL cholesterol benefits both men and women, and the elderly. For more, please read our article on Statins
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