Statins

Statins inhibit an enzyme, HMG-CoA reductase, which controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body. These drugs lower cholesterol by slowing down the production of cholesterol and by increasing the liver's ability to remove LDL. Statins help:

Lower your LDLs
Raise your HDLs
Reduce your plaque in your arteries
Protect the lining of your arteries
Lower your C-reactive protein
Reduce your risk of a first heart attack
Reduce your risk of a second heart attack if you've already had one
Reduce your risk of a stroke

Common Statin Medications

Below is a list of common brand name statins and the associated active ingredient found in the medication.

Click on the associated hyper-text link for a complete fact sheet on the associated medication to find out about drug interactions, side effects, and other useful information.

COMMON STATIN MEDICATIONS
BRAND NAME	ACTIVE INGREDIENT
Altocor, Altoprev	Lovastatin Extended Release
Crestor	Rosuvastatin
Lescol	Fluvastatin
Lescol XL	Fluvastatin Extended-Release
Lipitor	Atorvastatin
Mevacor	Lovastatin
Pravachol	Pravastatin
Zocor	Simvastatin

SOURCE: Drug Digest at www.drugdigest.org

Statins

Common Statin Medications

Related Links