title: [HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors: a brief review of their pharmacological properties and clinical efficacy in cardiovascular disease].
abstract: The results of recently published studies on primary and secondary prevention of coronary heart disease with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors--statins--support their use in patients with primary hypercholesterolaemia or mixed hyperlipidaemia, with or without atherosclerotic vascular disease. From a pharmacological point of view, statins inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, reduce the endogenous synthesis of cholesterol and increase the apoB/apoE lipoprotein clearance from plasma. Recent studies confirm that HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors may also decrease hepatic production of VLDL and LDL-cholesterol. However, they have different pharmacokinetic properties and variable effectiveness with potential clinical implications. These drugs are generally well tolerated with a similar profile of adverse effects (gastrointestinal effects, hepatic dysfunction and myopathy). The knowledge of their pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties can lead to a rational use and greater understanding of their potential benefits.
authors: Hospital de Santa Marta, Lisboa.
authors: P M
authors: PM
authors: da Silva
mesh_terms: D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control; D002784:Cholesterol / Q000096:biosynthesis; D006331:Heart Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008074:Lipoproteins / Q000378:metabolism; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic
chemical_list: D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; D008074:Lipoproteins; D002784:Cholesterol