What class of medications is commonly used for managing high cholesterol?

Statins are the class of medications that are most commonly used for managing high cholesterol. They work by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver that is responsible for the production of cholesterol, specifically targeting low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. By lowering LDL levels, statins help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes, that are associated with high cholesterol levels.

These medications are often prescribed alongside lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, to significantly improve lipid profiles. Statins also have some additional benefits, including their ability to stabilize plaque in the arteries, which further contributes to cardiovascular health.

Other classes of medications, such as beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers, serve different purposes in the management of cardiovascular conditions. For example, beta-blockers primarily reduce heart rate and blood pressure; ACE inhibitors help manage blood pressure and heart failure; and calcium channel blockers are used for hypertension and certain heart rhythm disorders. None of these classes specifically target cholesterol levels in the same way that statins do, which is why statins are the go-to choice for managing high cholesterol.