What is hyperlipidemia?

The abnormal elevation of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.

DRUG CLASS: HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors   (STATINS)

ACTION OF STATINS

The statins competitively inhibit the enzyme responsible for converting HMG-CoA to mevalonate in the biosynthetic pathway to cholesterol in the liver.

The reduction in liver cholesterol increases the removal of LDL from ciruclating blood.

USES OF STATINS

Used in conjuction with dietary therapy to decrease elevated cholesterol concentrations in hyperlipidemias and to reduce the risk of arthersclerosis leading to CHD.

FIVE COMMON STATINS

"THE STATIN SISTERS"

• Atorva Statin (Lipitor) likes it Anytime.
• Lova Statin (Mevacor) likes it at meal time.
• Fluva Statin (Lescol) likes it at bedtime.
• Prava Statin (Pravachol) likes it at bedtime. 
• Simva Statin (Zocor) likes it at bedtime. 

STATIN

Side Effects To Expect

• Headaches
• Abdominal Bloating
  
• Nausea
• Gas

Symptoms are usually mild and will disappear with continued therapy.

STATINS

Side Effects To REPORT

• Liver dysfunction
• Myopathy: symptoms of muscle aches, soreness, and weakness may be an early sign.

STATINS

Nursing Considerations

• Serum triglyceride and cholesterol levels should be determined before initiation of therapy.
• Liver function tests should be obtained before initiation of therapy and every 4 to 6 wks.
• Confirm patient is not pregnant.
• Avoid grapefruit juice, increases potential for myopathy.

Atorva Statin

Brand Name:

When administered:

Brand Name: Lipitor

When administered: Anytime

Fluva Statin

Brand Name:

When administered:

Brand Name: Lescol

When administered: bedtime

Lova Statin

Brand Name:

When administered:

Brand Name: Mevacor

When administered: evening Meal

Prava Statin

Brand Name:

When administered:

Brand Name: Pravachol

When administered: bedtime

Simva Statin

Brand Name:

When administered:

Brand Name: Zocor

When administered: Bedtime