The impact of statins on heart health: Beyond cholesterol lowering

Abstract

Statins have become a cornerstone in cardiovascular care, primarily for their ability to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, which is essential in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. They achieve this by inhibiting the enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, a critical component in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, statins reduce cholesterol production, leading to a significant decrease in LDL levels within the bloodstream.