How do statins work?

Statins inhibit the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body. These drugs lower cholesterol 20-60% by slowing the production of cholesterol and by increasing the liver's ability to remove the “bad” cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL) already in the blood. Statins lower LDL cholesterol levels more effectively than other types of drugs do. They also modestly increase the “good” cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL) and decrease total cholesterol and triglycerides.