A SHORT REVIEW ON HMG CoA REDUCTASE INHIBITORS

HMG CoA reductase inhibitors are the first line and more effective treatment for the patients with elevated LDL cholesterol level and to prevent high cholesterol associated disease conditions such as coronary artery disease. The purpose of this article is to clarify the mechanism of action, benefits, pharmacokinetics, dose, adverse reaction and indications of statins. They can inhibit the enzyme HMG CoA an enzyme responsible for conversion of HMG CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA) into mevalonic acid in the pathway of cholesterol biosynthesis. The action of statins results in a reduction in intracellular levels of cholesterol, an increase in expression of hepatic LDL receptor, and enhanced receptor- medicated catabolism and clearance of LDL-Cholesterol from serum. The overall effect is a reduction in triglycerides, low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and total protein with an increase in high density lipoprotein (HDL) level in the body. An overwhelming amount of data that confirm the morbidity and mortality benefit of statin therapy in high-risk CVD conditions have been reported, both in the primary and secondary prevention settings. Within the statin class, atorvastatin is a stronger medication. At 10 mg/day, 40 mg/day, 45 mg/day, and 80 mg/day, atorvastatin reduces LDL cholesterol by 33%, 40%, 45%, and 50–55%, respectively. Among the medications in the statin class, atorvastatin is the most effective. When compared to other statins, this more recent and well-liked one has the strongest LDL-lowering activity. Moreover, its plasma half-life is longer. Muscle aches, changes in liver function tests, and digestive issues are the most frequent side effects of statin medication. Hepatitis, sleeplessness, nightmares, rashes, and concentration problems are less frequent. These statins showed the best tolerability and hazard profile when it comes to discontinuations because of adverse events, myalgia, transaminase elevations, and CK elevations. The only significant reaction is myopathy, which is uncommon. When compared to other conditions, headaches and digestive problems are typically minor.  Clinicians have long utilized statin medicines to treat hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipoproteinemia, and hypertriglyceridemia in addition to diet and exercise.

Keywords: HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, statins, anti-hyperlipidemic agent, Cholesterol lowering agents, Lipid lowering agents.