Elderly man playing guitar for a delighted older woman.

Patient Education

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Statins

Statins are a type of medicine used to lower cholesterol levels and help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. These medicines block an enzyme the body needs to produce cholesterol, thereby lowering the total amount of it in the blood.

Along with reducing cholesterol levels in the blood, statins reduce inflammation around the cholesterol buildup (called a plaque). By stabilizing the plaque, there is less risk that it will rupture and cause a blood clot that can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Statins are also known as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.