Statins medication inhibits an enzyme
HMG- CoA reductase that controls the rate of cholesterol production in
the body. Thus statin medicine lower cholesterol by slows down the
production and increases the liver's ability to remove the LDL
cholesterol available in the blood. Thus heart attack risk due to
cholesterol is reduced. Statins is the most often prescribed medication
to lower cholesterol in case of a person with heart disease.
Statins medicine available in the market
Atorvastatin (Lipitor),
fluvastatin (Lescol),
lovastatin (Altoprev, Mevacor),
pravastatin (Pravachol),
rosuvastatin (Crestor) and
simvastatin (Zocor).
Who are benefited by Statins medications
Statin
help those who have an atheroma related disease (heart disease, etc).
Statin medication reduces the chances of these conditions getting worse
or delays its progression or reduces the risk of developing an atheroma
related disease. For example, if diabetes, high pressure or other risk
factors.
How to take Statins medicines
The statins
medications are usually given in a single dose at the evening meal or
at bedtime, because normally the body makes more cholesterol at night
than during the day.
Expected benefits of statins medication
Statin can lower LDL cholesterol levels by about 20 - 55 % more than other types of medications.
Moderately lower triglycerides and raises HDL.
Results from the statins medication can appear in 4 to 6 weeks.
After
about 6 to 8 weeks, doctor can do the first check of LDL cholesterol
while on the medication. A second measurement of LDL cholesterol level
will have to be averaged with the first. This value helps the doctor to
decide whether the dose of medicine should be changed to help meet the
goal.
Possible side effect of statins medication
Statins are well tolerated by most patients and serious side effects are rare. A few patients will experience an 1. Upset stomach, gas, constipation, and abdominal pain or cramps. 2. Rarely develop abnormalities in blood tests of the liver
3. Also rare side effect of muscle problems - muscle soreness, pain,
and weakness. If this happens, or have brown urine, contact the doctor
right away.
These symptoms usually are mild to moderate and generally go away as the body adjusts.
All information is intended for
your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice
or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt
medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician
before starting a new fitness regimen.
