How to Compare Statin Drugs
Statins lower the level of harmful cholesterol in our body by helping control the cholesterol production in our liver. They do this by blocking the enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol. Cholesterol is needed to help regulate body processes. But too much cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, a disease that can be fatal if left untreated.
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Instructions
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Look for the degree of effectiveness in reducing "bad" cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL).
Statins that reduce LDL by 35 percent to 50 percent are atorvastatin, 20 mg or more; rosuvastatin, 10 mg or more; simvastatin, 20 mg or more; lovastatin, 80 mg.
Statins that reduce LDL by 50 percent or more are atorvastatin, 80 mg daily; rosuvastatin, 20 mg or more.
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Read the degree of effectiveness in increasing good cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL). Studies have found that the ability of a particular statin to lower or reduce LDL is proportional to the amount it can increase HDL levels. For example, atorvastatin is reported to reduce LDL by 35 percent, which is roughly the percentage it could increase HDL in patients.
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It has been established in clinical trials that atorvastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin significantly reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack.
For patients who have undergone angioplasty, fluvastatin and pravastatin greatly reduce the event of a coronary event recurrence. Lovastatin reduces the risk of any coronary event for patients without any known history of coronary heart disease.
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Tips & Warnings
As a rule of thumb, patients should start with the lowest dose of statin to bring bad LDL cholesterol levels to normal numbers. High doses could damage the liver and muscles. On the other hand, people who have had heart attacks normally require higher doses.
Patients can also talk to their doctor about splitting their statin pills, which could lower their medical expenses.
Generally speaking, statins are very safe and pose no serious health risks as long as they are taken correctly. However, some patients who take them report muscle aches and pains. These symptoms should not be taken lightly, and patients should consult their doctors right away. Cases of pain and aches while on statins are relatively low, but some reports show a steady upward trend.
