Statins: Pharmacology, Clinical Implications & Adverse Effects

Statins work by reducing cholesterol synthesis by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. The decrease in cholesterol levels is associated with increased expression of receptors of hepatocytes, with a greater extraction of plasma LDL-C and a lower diffusion of it into the tissues. In this book, the authors present current research in the study of the pharmacology, clinical implications and adverse effects of statins. Topics include the pleiotropic effects of statins beyond cholesterol lowering; anti-inflammatory activity of statins in asthma and COPD; statins as anticancer agents; statin use in patients with carotid disease; and the Alzheimers disease risk-lowering effect of lipophilic statins.