Statin Drugs: Right for You?

Aired on Lifetime Television
May 11 and June 22, 2008
Show 512

Do you know your numbers? High LDL ("lousy") cholesterol is one of the big factors for heart disease. What can help lower cholesterol when changes in diet and exercise routine don't? More frequently, the answer is statins, drugs that work with enzymes in the liver to inhibit cholesterol production. They've been a big help for millions of people looking to lower those bad numbers – they've even shown a tendency to reduce the risk of cardiac arrest. For 75-year-old Nancy, prescription statins have reduced her cholesterol from 230 to around 180 and preserved her quality of life. They are recommended for many with high cholesterol, but as with any drug, there are risk factors. Your cholesterol level, family history, blood pressure, age, lifestyle and any other heart disease risk factors should all be taken into account. Your doctor can determine if statins may serve as the cholesterol-lowering solution you may need.