Statins

• • Too much of LDL cholesterol can cause fatty deposits to build up in arteries
• • Statins are drugs whih reduce LDL cholesterol levels in the blood
  • This slows down the rate of fatty material deposit
• Advantages:

  • Can reduce risk of strokes, CHD, heart attacks
  • Can increase amount of HDL cholesterol - can remove LDL cholesterol
  • May help prevent other diseases
• Disadvantages:

  • Long term drug to be taken regularly - can be forgotten to be taken
  • Negative side effects - kidney failure, headache, liver damage, memory loss
  • Time taken for effects fo kick in