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Statins are a class of medications designed to lower the presence of harmful low-density lipid (LDL) cholesterol in the bloodstream. Drug manufacturers currently produce a number of different statin products.
The Facts
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), statins---also known as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors---achieve their beneficial effects by preventing the formation of cholesterol in the liver.
Available Statin Products
Statin products on the market currently include simvastatin (Zocor), fluvastatin (Lescol), rosuvastatin (Crestor), atorvastatin (Lipitor), lovastatin (Altoprev, Mevacor) and pravastatin (Pravachol). Zocor is also available as part of another product, Vytorin, that combines simvastatin with the cholesterol drug ezetimibe.
Vytorin
In 2008 and 2009, the FDA investigated Vytorin as a potential risk factor for certain cancers. They determined that Vytorin use does not significantly raise cancer risks.
Factors in Statin Use
Doctors typically consider statin use in individuals with high cholesterol levels accompanied by additional factors that may include diabetes, high blood pressure, family history of risk factors and the presence of peripheral vascular (artery) disease.
Additional Benefits
In addition to lowering "bad" cholesterol, statins also help raise levels of "good" HDL cholesterol.
Source:
U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Controlling Cholesterol With Statins
MayoClinic.com: Statins---Are These Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs Right For You?
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