Statins

• Lovastatin (Mevacor)
• Pravastatin (Pravachol)
• Lovastatin (Mevacor)
• Simvastatin (Zocor)
• Fluvastatin (Lescol)
• Atorvastatin (Lipitor)
• Rosuvastatin (Crestor)

Action
This type of drug acts primarily in the liver by blocking the liver's ability to manufacture cholesterol. The liver responds by increasing the number of LDL receptors, which pull the LDL cholesterol from the blood. The end result is a decrease in LDL in the blood.

Side Effects
Side effects appear to be minimal, and the drugs are well tolerated. However, possible side effects are: muscle inflammation/pain (myositis), stomach discomfort, rash and elevations in liver enzymes. Blood test for liver function abnormalities should be obtained every six months after starting therapy and with every dosage change, and then as needed.

Note: If you are taking Cyclosporin (used after transplants), Pravastatin is the only drug shown to be safe to use in this setting.

Other Drugs to Lower Lipids

• Nicotinic Acid (Niaspan, Niacin)
• Fibric Acid (Lopid, Tricor, Antara)
• Bile Acid Sequestrants (Questran, Welchol)
• Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitor (Zetia)