Statin Myths and Facts

How can a statin help me?

One way to lower your risk of cardiovascular disease is by keeping your cholesterol in a healthy range. Making good lifestyle choices, such as eating nonprocessed foods low in saturated fats and exercising regularly are great ways to keep your cholesterol levels in a healthy range. There are times when lifestyle changes are not enough, and your health care provider may prescribe a statin to help.

Who should take a statin?

People with cardiovascular disease are at increased risk of problems like heart attack, stroke or even death. Statin medications can reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke. American Heart Association guidelines recommend people in any of these groups should talk to their provider about the benefits and risks of statin therapy

• Adults with a history of cardiovascular disease (CVD), including stroke, caused by atherosclerosis
• Those with LDL-C level of greater than 190 mg/dL
• Adults 40-75 years with diabetes, regardless of your cholesterol level 
• Adults 40-75 years with LDL-C level of 70-189 mg/dL and a 5% to 19.9% 10-year risk of developing CVD from atherosclerosis and risk-enhancing factors (ask your provider about your 10-year risk)
• Adults 40-75 years with LDL-C level of 70-189 mg/dL and a 20% or greater 10-year risk of developing CVD from atherosclerosis (ask your provider about your 10-year risk)

Examples of statins and side effects

Some common statins are atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin, pravastatin and lovastatin. Statins have few side effects and are generally well tolerated. There are several myths about taking statins. Talk to your provider to see if statin therapy might be right for you.