HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are commonly referred to as which class of lipid-lowering agents?

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Blocking HMG-CoA reductase disrupts the first committed step in hepatic cholesterol synthesis. With less cholesterol built in the liver, cells upregulate LDL receptors and pull more LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, producing a meaningful drop in plasma LDL-C. This mechanism defines the statin class of lipid-lowering agents, which are the most potent drugs for lowering LDL and reducing cardiovascular risk. They may also modestly lower triglycerides and slightly raise HDL. Other lipid-lowering strategies work through different pathways—fibrates mainly reduce triglycerides via PPAR-α activation, niacin lowers hepatic VLDL production and raises HDL, and bile acid sequestrants prevent bile acid reabsorption, prompting the liver to use more cholesterol to make new bile acids. Common statins include atorvastatin, simvastatin, rosuvastatin, and pravastatin.