Hydroxy-Methyl-Glutaryl Coenzyme A Reductase Inhibitors

The current mainstay of medical treatment of hyperlipidemia is a group of drugs that interfere with the actions of hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase. The HMG CoA reductase inhibitors block cholesterol synthesis in the liver, resulting in the increased uptake of serum LDL cholesterol. This results in predictable and dose-related decrements in serum LDL cholesterol. Side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, liver toxicity, and myopathy.