Statin

Statins are drugs that lower blood cholesterol. High blood cholesterol is linked to fatty deposits in arteries, so lowering it slows the rate at which fatty material is deposited. This reduces the risk of coronary heart disease.

Statins lower blood cholesterol, reducing a risk factor for further fatty build-up in arteries. They are taken regularly, often for life, and do not require an operation. However, they can cause side effects and do not immediately reopen an artery that is already severely narrowed.

Statins lower blood cholesterol. Because cholesterol is linked to fatty deposits in arteries, statins can reduce the likelihood of further coronary heart problems. They can be useful as a long-term treatment without surgery, but they must be taken regularly and can cause side effects in some people.

Statins lower blood cholesterol; other medicines lower blood pressure, help prevent blood clots or widen blood vessels. These can reduce the risk of a heart attack or relieve symptoms without an operation. Their limitations include possible side effects and the need for ongoing treatment: a medicine may control a risk factor without clearing a severely narrowed artery.