Statins are a class of medication that are frequently used to lower blood cholesterol levels. Individuals with high levels of cholesterol are more prone to developing atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition that causes your vessels to narrow due to the buildup of plaque within the arteries. This can further cause reduced blood flow and contribute to hypertension because of the high pressure present. The drug works by blocking an enzyme called HMG-CoA, which controls cholesterol level productions in the liver. This in turn reduces the LDLs (bad cholesterol) in the blood associated with coronary disease and increases HDLs (good cholesterol) that removes excess cholesterol from the arterial wall. Statins also reduces blood triglyceride levels that can contribute to heart disease.
Speak to your healthcare provider if you experience muscle pain and cramps from taking statins.