Lowering the Risk: A Collaborative Approach to Statin Use

Course overview

Statins remain the cornerstone of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) prevention and are among the most commonly prescribed medications worldwide. These medications are generally safe and well-tolerated, with clinical trials consistently demonstrating their ability to lower LDL cholesterol and improve a patient's long-term prognosis. Beyond lowering cholesterol levels, statins also have important pleiotropic effects, including decreasing systemic inflammation, lowering C-reactive protein and pro-inflammatory cytokines, improving endothelial function, and regulating hepatic LDL-receptor-related protein. Evidence also supports the use of statin therapy in individuals without established ASCVD but with elevated inflammatory markers, underscoring the importance of these markers in disease prevention. This continuing education activity provides learners with a practical, contemporary overview of statin therapy, including evidence-based use, key patient counseling considerations, and common safety concerns. Learners will also explore the roles of the interprofessional healthcare team in managing statin therapy, with an emphasis on communication, patient education, and collaborative care planning.