Your body requires cholesterol to build healthy cells and hormones. It only invites trouble when it goes over the desired total cholesterol level, which is 200 mg/dL. High cholesterol needs proper management, or it can increase your risk of heart diseases like heart attack and stroke. While lifestyle modifications can play a significant role in preventing and managing cholesterol levels, in severe cases, cholesterol-lowering medications like statins may be recommended by doctors. But are they safe for everyone to take?
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Statins For High Cholesterol
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Vikrant Khese, Consultant Cardiologist, Apollo Clinic, Kharadi, Pune, explained the function of statins, saying that they work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, a key player in the cholesterol production process of the liver. Through the reduction of this enzyme's activity, statins effectively lower the body's cholesterol production, he further shared.
According to him, statins mostly target Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is what contributes to the formation of plaque in the blood vessels, narrowing them and increasing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, the doctor suggested that the cholesterol-lowering medication may modestly increase High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream and carries it back to the liver for elimination.
This was also suggested in a study published in the Methodist Debakey Cardiovascular Journal, which found that the use of statins can help lower LDL cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and even slow the rate of atherosclerosis or plaque buildup.
Who Should Not Take Statins?
In general, Indians can tolerate prescribed statin doses well and usually do not experience side effects, Dr Tom Devasia, Professor-Department of Cardiology, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE, Manipal, told the team of OnlyMyHealth.
However, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with active liver disease or muscle-related problems, and individuals who have a risk of diabetes should avoid taking cholesterol-lowering medication, the doctor advised.
Some of the common side effects of statin use experienced by some people include:
- Liver damage
- Increased blood sugar or type 2 diabetes
- Muscle pain and damage
- Gut problems such as constipation, diarrhoea, and indigestion
- Physical weakness
- Skin problems such as acne and itchy red rash
- Sexual problems
- Headaches
Dr Devasia said, “Based on recent studies, the intake of statins can increase liver enzymes in people and cause inflammation in some individuals.”
While severe liver damage is rare, people who are on statin therapy are recommended to regularly monitor their liver function, the doctor added, advising alternative treatments for those with a history of liver disease.
On the contrary, some studies have also shown the benefits of statin for liver health. As per a study published in the JAMA Network, statin users had a 15% lower risk of developing any new liver disease compared to non-users. Additionally, researchers found that people who used statins had a 28% lower risk of dying from liver-related causes, and 42% had a reduced risk of liver cancer. While the results of the study are promising, it is important to speak with your doctor to understand how statins may impact your liver.
Common Mistakes To Avoid While Taking Statins
For those taking statins or considering using cholesterol-lowering medications, here are a few mistakes to avoid:
- Regularly check your cholesterol levels and take statins exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Avoid high consumption of grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they may increase the side effects if interacted with statins.
- Limit or stop consuming alcohol.
- Opt for nutritious, wholesome foods and include healthy forms of fat, such as fish, flaxseeds, nuts, and olive oil.
- Keep yourself active and indulge in at least 30 minutes of exercise per day.
Conclusion
Statins are an effective cholesterol-lowering medication that is prescribed by doctors to those with exceedingly high cholesterol levels. While it’s generally safe, some people may need to reconsider their intake due to the damage it can cause to their liver. Speaking with your doctor or consulting a healthcare professional may help determine whether or not it is safe to take.