STATINS

Q: What is the primary function of statins?
A: Lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and raise HDL (good cholesterol).

Q: What is another name for statins?
A: HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

Q: How can you identify statins in a medication list?
A: Look for the suffix “-statin” (e.g., simvastatin, lovastatin).

Q: What is the mechanism of action of statins?
A: Inhibit HMG-CoA reductase to reduce cholesterol synthesis.

Q: What role does the liver play in cholesterol synthesis?
A: It produces cholesterol via the mevalonate pathway.

Q: What enzyme do statins inhibit?
A: HMG-CoA reductase.

Q: Why is LDL considered bad cholesterol?
A: It forms plaques in blood vessels, leading to blockages.

Q: What is the desired level for LDL cholesterol?
A: Less than 100 mg/dL.

Q: Why is HDL considered good cholesterol?
A: It removes LDL from the blood, preventing plaque formation.

Q: What is the desired level for HDL cholesterol?
A: Greater than 60 mg/dL.

Q: What conditions are statins used to treat?
A: High cholesterol, coronary artery disease, and plaque stabilization.

Q: What is the nurse's role in monitoring statin patients?
A: Watch for muscle pain, monitor CK, ALT, AST, and blood sugar levels, and educate on diet and exercise.

Q: What is statin-induced rhabdomyolysis?
A: Severe muscle damage releasing myoglobin, potentially causing kidney failure.

Q: Why should patients avoid grapefruit while on statins?
A: It increases statin toxicity and risk of side effects.

Q: What liver enzymes should be monitored with statins?
A: ALT and AST.

Q: How do statins affect glucose levels in type 2 diabetes risk patients?
A: They can raise glucose levels, requiring monitoring for hyperglycemia.

Q: Why are statins not a cure for high cholesterol?
A: They manage cholesterol but require ongoing diet and exercise for lasting results.