statin

[ stat-n ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. any of a class of drugs that reduce the levels of lipids in the blood by altering the enzyme activity in the liver that produces lipids: used in the prevention and treatment of heart disease.

statin

/ ˈstætɪn /

noun

1. any of a class of drugs, including atorvastatin and simvastatin, that lower the levels of low-density lipoproteins in the blood by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver

statin

/ stăt′n /

1. Any of a class of drugs that inhibit a key enzyme involved in the synthesis of cholesterol and promote receptor binding of LDL-cholesterol, resulting in decreased levels of serum cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol and increased levels of HDL-cholesterol.

Word History and Origins

Origin of statin¹

First recorded in 1985–90; extracted from (lova)statin and other drugs in this class

Example Sentences

Fortunately, this attention to cholesterol has prompted the development of cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins and lifestyle interventions like dietary and exercise regimens.

From Science Daily

In the early days of blood-pressure-lowering medicines or statins to reduce cholesterol, they were expensive and given to the few who would benefit the most.

From BBC

The double-glazing salesman has now been prescribed statins, told to quit smoking and increase his exercise after tests using the AI analysis suggested he was at risk of having a heart attack.

From BBC

Her motto is to do what works for her, “even if it means disagreeing with my doctor and not upping my statin to get my LDL below 80. Enough chasing magic numbers!”

From Los Angeles Times

And by 1987, after other researchers in the field had published additional research on statins, Merck was manufacturing the first licensed statin.

From New York Times