Statin medications are commonly used to lower cholesterol levels. They can help prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke and are often recommended for patients 40 and older.

Heart disease remains the number one cause of death in the United States. Studies continue to point to the prevention of heart attack and stroke through the use of statin medications. There are, however, rare situations where someone who is at risk shouldn’t use them.

Statins were approved in 1987 and have been prescribed to tens of millions of patients. For all of their proven benefits, they are often still the subject of many misnomers.

How Statin Drugs Work

While many associate and think of statins as a heart medication the truth is that it’s a lipid-lowering drug that works in the liver. Statins inhibit and block the function of the liver enzyme HMG-CoA reductase which is needed for cholesterol formation. They also stabilize plaque already formed on artery walls. This makes the condition less likely to get worse and cause a stroke or heart attack.

Statins help to remove cholesterol from the blood which causes the liver to make more LDL cholesterol receptors that remove cholesterol from the body.

Who are Statins Made For?

Statins are recommended for those diagnosed with heart disease, who have had a stent put into their heart, or who have already experienced a heart attack or stroke.

They are also good for early intervention to fend off likely health issues in the future. This decision is based on current health, genetics, and predisposition as well as family history.

Risk Vs. Benefit

Although they can reduce the risk of heart disease, statin drugs also bring some side effects. These include muscle pain, liver damage, and increased blood sugar. These can be easily eliminated through trial and error.

Muscle pain – Can be eliminated with an increased level of Vitamin D for some. For others, the dosage may need to be adjusted.

Memory Loss – This rumor is false. Statins have not been connected to any permanent memory loss.

You should always work closely with your doctor to find a statin that is both safe and effective for your condition. The physicians at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates work successfully with heart patients on statins daily. We would love to work with you in our office to help you achieve optimum health.

Visit www.tampacardio.com to learn more or call us to schedule your appointment at 813-975-2800.