What is the primary therapeutic use of statins?

Statins are primarily used to reduce blood cholesterol levels, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Elevated LDL cholesterol is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. By inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a central role in the cholesterol synthesis pathway, statins effectively lower the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver. This, in turn, can lead to a decrease in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques within the arteries, thus improving cardiovascular health.

The use of statins in managing cholesterol is a key element of preventive care for individuals with high cholesterol levels or those at risk for heart disease. They may also have additional benefits, such as anti-inflammatory effects and improving endothelial function, contributing to overall cardiovascular health, but their primary therapeutic role remains the reduction of cholesterol levels in the blood.