What it means
An HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin) that blocks the liver's making of cholesterol. It lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and is used for hyperlipidemiahy-per-lip-ih-DEE-mee-uhHigher than healthy levels of fats (lipids), such as cholesterol or triglycerides, in the blood.hyper- abovelip/o fat-emia in the bloodFull entry and to prevent heart disease and stroke. It can be taken at any time of day. Side effects include muscle aches and, rarely, serious muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis) and liver injury.
For the nurse
Teach the client to report unexplained muscle pain, weakness or dark urine. Check liver function as ordered. Teach the client to tell the provider about a pregnancy or plans for one, since statins are usually stopped during pregnancy. A low-fat diet and exercise remain part of treatment.
Remember it
"-statin" drugs lower cholesterol.
At a glance
| Drug class | antilipemic (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, statin) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Lipitor, Atorvaliq |
| Spanish | atorvastatina |
| Also written | Lipitor, Atorvaliq |
Easy to confuse with
cetirizine
A second-generation antihistamine used for allergy symptoms and hives.
Related terms
coronary artery disease
Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle, most often from fatty plaque buildup.
atherosclerosis
A buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) inside the walls of the arteries.
hyperlipidemia
Higher than healthy levels of fats (lipids), such as cholesterol or triglycerides, in the blood.
simvastatin
A statin drug that lowers LDL cholesterol and the risk of heart disease.