Cardiologia Croatica, Vol. 11 No. 1-2, 2016.
Review article
https://doi.org/10.15836/ccar2016.81
Statins in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases: Facts and Prejudices.
Nenad Lakušić
orcid.org/0000-0002-2329-2582
; Special Hospital for Medical Rehabilitation Krapinske Toplice, Krapinske Toplice, Croatia
Abstract
In spite of ample evidence supporting the direct effectiveness of statins in the reduction of total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and long-term effects in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases, in everyday practice we are still faced with various prejudices against the undesired effects of treatment and the possible adverse effects of statins, not only among patients, but among some physicians as well. The basic mechanism of action of statins is inhibiting 3-hydroxymethyl-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA), a key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. Their other potential mechanisms are stabilization of atherosclerotic plaque and reduction of endothelial dysfunction, as well as in ammatory and post-thrombotic intravascular processes. The side effects of treatment with statins are generally mild, with a frequency comparable to placebo, and usually do not require the termination of treatment. It is necessary to emphasize that patients must always be encouraged to adopt an active, non-sedentary lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, due to its clear positive effects in the prevention and treatment of dyslipidemia and cardiovascular diseases.
Keywords
statins; dyslipidemia; cardiovascular prevention
Hrčak ID:
153679
URI
Publication date:
23.2.2016.
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