# Statins --- **Statins**, or more officially **HMG-CoA reducatse inhibitors** are [[medicine|drugs]] that are used to help lower blood [[cholesterol]]. They are typically prescribed for individuals with [[lipoprotein|LDL]] levels >130 mg/dL. Statin brand names end with -tor or -cor. The primary reason for proscribing a statin is the prevention of cardiovascular disease, especially for those at higher risk for [[myocardial infarction|MI]] and [[stroke|strokes]]. It's also used as a secondary prevention for those with [[coronary artery disease]] evidence of coronary heart disease. Also decreases the risk of angina and revascularization procedures in patients with multiple risk factors. ## Mechanisim of Action Statins are a competitive inhibitor for **HMG-CoA reductase**, which is an enzyme used early in the production of [[cholesterol]]. ## Adverse Reactions Side effects: - GI distress - cramps - constipation - diarrhea - flatus - heartburn - rashes - arthralgias - myalgias/muscle weakness - difficulty sleeping Not common but monitor for signs of liver disease ## Contraindications - acute liver disease - statins are highly metabolized by the liver - avoid [[grapefruit]] (it's one of those) ## Meds - **Atorvastatin** (brand name: **Lipitor**) - **Rosuvastatin** (brand name: **Crestor**) - **Simvastatin** (brand name: **Zocor**) ___