HMG CoA Reductase Inhibitors

Question 1

Common Facts

Answer 1

Common name: statins
Common ending: -statin
Commonly used to treat: Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol)
Commonly dosed once daily (usually in evening or at bedtime)

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Words that end in -ase are enzymes
HMG CoA Reductase: enzymes involved in final step of cholesterol synthesis
Statins inhibit HMG CoA reductase (therefore, inhibit final step in synthesis of cholesterol)
Also help increase clearance of LDL (low density lipoproteins; “Lousy” cholesterol)

Question 3

Common Adverse Reactions

Answer 3

Myositis (inflammation of muscle)
Rhabdomyolysis (breakdown of muscle tissue)
Muscle cramps/pain
Liver dysfunction

Question 4

Crestor

Answer 4

Generic name: rosuvastatin
Tablets: 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg
Auxiliary label: avoid antacids containing magnesium

Question 5

Lescol

Answer 5

Generic name: fluvastatin
Capsules: 20mg, 40mg
Extended release tablets: 80mg

Question 6

Lipitor

Answer 6

Generic name: atorvastatin
Tablets: 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, 80mg
Auxiliary label: avoid grapefruit

Question 7

Mevacor

Answer 7

Generic name: lovastatin
Tablets: 20mg, 40mg
Auxiliary label: avoid grapefruit

Question 8

Pravachol

Answer 8

Generic name: pravastatin

Tablets: 10mg, 20mg, 40mg

Question 9

Zocor

Answer 9

Generic name: simvastatin
Tablets: 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, 80mg
Auxiliary label: Avoid grapefruit