Lipid-lowering effects of statins: a comparative review

The pharmacological regulation of lipid metabolism in patients with dyslipidaemia is unequivocally associated with significant reductions in risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. There is strong clinical trial data to support of the use of statin therapies in the settings of both primary and secondary prevention. This paper addresses: i) the mechanisms of action of antilipidaemic medications; ii) dosing regimens and the pharmacokinetic differences among drugs of the same class; iii) risk for drug interactions; and iv) reviews the clinical trial evidence used to support the use of particular antilipidaernic medications in specific physiological settings.