When might I need a statin to lower cholesterol?
Statins may be considered for established cardiovascular disease, markedly raised cholesterol or sufficient future cardiovascular risk. The decision requires a full assessment; one threshold or family history alone is not a universal prescribing rule.
Details
What does the clinician assess?
Prevention after a heart attack or established arterial disease differs from prevention before disease develops. Age, diabetes, kidney function, blood pressure, smoking, lipid results and other medicines influence the decision. Risk calculators and treatment thresholds also differ between guidelines.
Benefits and follow-up
Statins reduce cholesterol production in the liver and lower vascular-event risk in appropriate groups. Nutrition and activity remain important alongside treatment. Response and adverse effects should be reviewed. Discuss muscle pain or other new symptoms rather than stopping or switching treatment yourself.
Before starting
Tell your clinician about liver disease, medicines, supplements, pregnancy or pregnancy plans. Ask what benefit is expected for you and when tests should be repeated. This explanation does not prescribe a particular statin or dose.
Related reading: Does high cholesterol increase stroke risk?.