5 questions about taking drugs known as statins

Follow on Twitter
on May 10, 2012 at 12:00 AM
Dr. Spizzieri.JPGView full sizeDr. Christopher L. Spizzieri

Christopher L. Spizzieri
TITLE: Cardiologist
COMPANY: Capital Cardiovascular Associates, Holy Spirit Cardiovascular Institute

Q: What are statins and what are they used to treat?

A: Statins are a type of medication used to inhibit a key protein involved in making cholesterol. They are intended to treat elevated cholesterol levels in patients who have vascular disease or who are at risk of developing vascular disease.

Q: When is a statin needed to lower cholesterol?

A: This is a complex question. It depends on the patient, their history and risk factors.

Q: The Food and Drug Administration recently updated the guidelines for statins to eliminate the need for routine monitoring of liver enzymes. What does this mean for patients?

A: Statin therapy can increase liver enzymes. This may occur up to 2 percent of the time. The FDA changed the frequency of monitoring liver enzymes, which means less blood work testing for the patient. However periodic monitoring still would be advisable.

Q: The most recent FDA statement also pointed out some side effects of the drug, including memory loss and a risk of developing type 2 diabetes. What should patients know about the possible side effects of statins?

A: The use of statins is important in the treatment and prevention of vascular disease. Health care providers must always weigh the benefits of treatment versus the risks of treatment. The most common side effects of the drug include diarrhea and muscle aches.

Q: How can patients better understand the risks and benefits of statins?

A: Education and discussion with your health care provider is essential. Discuss the reason, or reasons, why the statin is needed, and what would be an acceptable level of cholesterol. 

Interview conducted via email by Patriot-News staff.