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Statins are a type of cholesterol-reducing drug that lower the levels of fats (lipids) in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides. Other types of cholesterol-reducing drugs include fibrates, bile acid resins, nicotinic acid and ezetimibe. All are commonly used to treat high cholesterol, but statins are considered the first line of treatment for patients with this condition.

High levels of cholesterol, triglycerides and other fats in the bloodstream increase the risk of developing hardening or narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis), heart attack, stroke and other heart-related conditions.