Too much LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, in your blood can increase your risk of heart attack, heart disease and stroke. An LDL level below 100 mg/dL is considered optimal. If the LDL in your blood exceeds 129 mg/dL, your doctor may recommend a cholesterol lowering drug called a statin to help reduce your LDL level to a healthy range.
How They Work
A statin drug helps lower your LDL levels in two ways. Statins block the action of an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, which is needed for your liver to synthesize cholesterol. If this enzyme cannot work properly, the liver cannot produce cholesterol and the levels of cholesterol in your blood drop. Statins also increase your liver's ability to remove excess cholesterol from your blood. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, statins can help reduce your LDL levels by 20 to 60 percent.
Dosage
Statins are commercially available in five major forms: atorvastatin, lovastatin, fluvastatin, pravastatin and simvastatin. These different medications have the same action in your body. It is usually recommended to take statins once per day at your evening meal or just before you go to sleep. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute notes that it is important to take statins in the evening, because your body makes more cholesterol at night than during the day. Your doctor will generally start you with a small dose of a statin and then gradually increase your dosage based on how your body reacts to the medication.
Statins usually begin to work in several weeks, although the stage at which the highest benefit becomes apparent is usually between 4 and 6 weeks.
Side Effects
Most people can tolerate statins without experiencing any negative side effects. When side effects do occur, they may include diarrhea, constipation, gas, joint pain and headache. These side effects are usually mild and not a cause for concern. If you experience fever, chest pain, lack of energy, extreme fatigue, unusual bleeding, loss of appetite, muscle pain, hives, rash or difficulty breathing, you should contact your doctor right away.
Considerations
When taking a statin for LDL, it is important that you also follow a healthy lifestyle. Statins are most effective when taken in conjunction with a low-fat, low-cholesterol and low-sodium diet. You should also quit smoking if you are a smoker, and limit your alcohol consumption to no more than one or two drinks per day. It is also vital that you engage in a regular exercise routine and stress-reduction activities, such as yoga and meditation.
