Statins

Neurohormones that inhibit the secretion of tropic hormones in the pituitary gland are the first target of pituitary hormones. They belong to the class of drugs used to lower the level of cholesterol in the blood plasma. Statins reduce cholesterol levels by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A) reductase, which is the enzyme that regulates the speed of cholesterol synthesis. The enzyme HMG-CoA catalyzes the first irreversible reaction of cholesterol synthesis. They also activate low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors and remove LDL – “bad” cholesterol more rapidly. By reducing cholesterol concentration in the blood, these drugs help prevent heart and vascular diseases. They can reduce the size of existing atherosclerotic plaques and prevent new ones from forming. The effectiveness of statin therapy can be evaluated a week after starting to take them. The maximum effect is usually seen after 4-6 weeks.

Statins can be obtained through fermentation or synthesis.

Source | Glossary of Most Commonly Used Biomedical Terms and Concepts | Lithuanian University of Health Sciences | Academician Professor Antanas Praškevičius, Professor Laima Ivanovienė