Introduction Heart disease is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions worldwide. While lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and stress management are essential for prevention and management, medications often play a critical role in controlling symptoms, preventing complications, and prolonging life. Understanding how common heart medications work can help patients become more engaged in their care, manage side effects effectively, and adhere to treatment plans. This article breaks down the most frequently prescribed cardiovascular drugs, what they do, how they work, and why they’re important. 1. Statins (Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs) What They Do: Statins reduce LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol), lower triglycerides,…
-
-
Introduction Statins are among the most commonly prescribed medications worldwide, especially for people at risk of cardiovascular disease. These cholesterol-lowering drugs have been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and even death in high-risk individuals. Despite their widespread use and proven benefits, statins are often misunderstood, surrounded by myths, confusion, and concerns about side effects. This article demystifies statins: how they work, who should take them, what side effects to watch for, and what alternative treatments exist for those who can’t or choose not to take them. What Are Statins? Statins are a class of medications that…