Statins: What They Do, Medicines
Statins are prescription medicines that lower cholesterol in the blood. They are used to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke in people at higher risk. Common examples are atorvastatin and simvastatin. They are not recommended in pregnancy, and they should only be started or stopped on a doctor's advice.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Statins work?
Statins block an enzyme in the liver called HMG-CoA reductase, which the body uses to make cholesterol. The liver then makes less cholesterol and removes more LDL cholesterol from the blood.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Statins. They are listed A to Z.
- Atorvastatin: Atorvastatin is a prescription medicine that lowers cholesterol in the blood.
- Rosuvastatin: Rosuvastatin is a prescription medicine that lowers cholesterol in the blood.
Common questions
Are statins safe in pregnancy?
Statins are not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding. A woman who is pregnant, could become pregnant or is planning a baby should tell her doctor and ask about contraception. Do not stop a prescribed statin without speaking to your doctor.
What should I do if a statin causes muscle pain?
Tell your doctor promptly, especially for unexplained, severe pain or weakness, or dark urine. Rarely, statins damage muscle. The doctor may check a blood test and adjust treatment. Do not stop or change the medicine yourself.
Can I stop a statin once my cholesterol is normal?
Cholesterol usually rises again if a statin is stopped, so most people take it for the long term. A normal result often means the medicine is working. Talk to your doctor before making any change.
Sources
- Statins. NHS (UK)
- Atorvastatin: a medicine to lower cholesterol. NHS (UK)
- Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium) tablets: prescribing information (revised 2024). DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
- ATC/DDD Index: C10AA HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- National Formulary of India. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission