The Buzz on Statin: What Do You Need to Know?
Patients may have questions about taking medications called
statins to manage their high cholesterol. We are here to
help.
Statins, when used correctly, can
dramatically decrease a person’s risk of having a heart
attack or stroke. Millions of people are missing the
opportunity statins provide. Many times, people do not start
or stop taking a statin due to fears about side effects. The
good news is that understanding your personal benefits and
risks and working through your concerns with your provider
can help you live a longer, healthier life.
What is a statin and how does it work?
Statins are a class of medications used to lower
cholesterol. While some of the cholesterol in your blood
comes from food, most is made by the liver. Statins work by
decreasing the amount of cholesterol made by the liver and
help remove cholesterol that is already in the blood.
Statins may also reduce inflammation in blood vessels.
Inflammation in artery walls can lead to blockages that
damage organs such as the heart and brain.
What are the benefits of
statins?
Scientific studies and years of use all over the world have
proven that statins, when used correctly, reduce a person’s
chances of having a heart attack or stroke needing surgical
intervention, and death. The higher a person’s risk of
having a heart attack or stroke, the stronger the benefit of
the statin. It is important to discuss your personal
benefits with your provider.
Who should consider taking a statin?
If you can answer yes to any of these questions, it’s
important to talk to your provider about taking statin
medications:
-
Have you had a heart attack or stroke?
-
Are you at high risk for heart disease or stroke due to other factors like high blood pressure?
-
Do you have diabetes or very high “bad” cholesterol levels?
When should you consider taking a statin?
Starting a statin medication depends on your health. Next
time you see your provider discuss whether a statin
medication is right for you especially if you have had a
heart attack, stroke, high risk for heart disease or stroke,
diabetes, or high cholesterol.
What should I ask my provider?
Together with your provider, you can make the best decision
for your healthiest future by asking the following
questions:
-
What are my “good” and “bad” cholesterol levels?
-
What is my personal risk of a heart attack or stroke?
-
How often will I need follow-up blood tests and check-ups?
-
How will we know that the statin is working for me?
