
Statins Explained: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and Alternatives
Statins are among the most widely prescribed and thoroughly researched medications in modern medicine. Their primary role is lowering LDL cholesterol (often called "bad" cholesterol) in the blood, significantly reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and heart-related death. While their ability to prevent heart attacks is well established, questions remain regarding potential side effects like muscle discomfort and a slight increase in diabetes risk. This article breaks down how statins work, their core benefits and trade-offs, who needs them, whether dietary changes can replace medication, and how treatment considerations change for older adults.
