What are statins?

Statins are a class of medications that interfere with the body's ability to make cholesterol. In this video, cardiologist Barbara Roberts, MD, describes how cholesterol is made in the body, and how statins work to hinder that process.

Up Next

  • How is high cholesterol treated?

  • Are there side effects to taking statins?

  • Statins are more effective than supplements for cutting cholesterol, study shows

  • Are there solutions to statin intolerance?

  • 4 lifestyle changes that could help improve high cholesterol

  • What's high cholesterol and what are the causes?

  • Are there alternative treatments for high cholesterol?

  • How diet affects your cholesterol (3 min)

  • How important are cholesterol levels?

  • What is a heart attack?

Up Next

  • How is high cholesterol treated?

  • Are there side effects to taking statins?

  • Statins are more effective than supplements for cutting cholesterol, study shows

  • Are there solutions to statin intolerance?

  • 4 lifestyle changes that could help improve high cholesterol

  • What's high cholesterol and what are the causes?

  • Are there alternative treatments for high cholesterol?

  • How diet affects your cholesterol (3 min)

  • How important are cholesterol levels?

  • What is a heart attack?

AskMDAskMD

Concerned about your heart health?

Get instant answers from our AI health assistant

Ask Now

Recommended for you

Cholesterol-lowering medications can reduce your risk of heart disease. Learn who may benefit and why.

My cholesterol levels are up. Do I need to take a statin?
Article

An overview of cholesterol, including the different types of cholesterol and treatment for high cholesterol.

What is high cholesterol?
Article

Find out about medications and lifestyle habits that can help lower your cholesterol for a healthier heart.

Cholesterol treatments you should know about
Article

What to ask your healthcare provider when you are prescribed a medication for high cholesterol.

Questions when starting a cholesterol medication
Article

Managing high cholesterol can help reduce your risk of heart disease and heart attack. Learn how to keep your levels heathy.

What to do if you have high cholesterol
Article
AskMDHow can I be more consistent?
AskMD by Sharecare LogoAskMD by Sharecare Logo
Privacy policyConsumer health data privacyTerms of use
Cookie policyYour privacy choices

© 2026 Sharecare, Inc.

ask-mdask-md
AskMD by Sharecare LogoAskMD by Sharecare Logo
Privacy policyConsumer health data privacyTerms of use
Cookie policyYour privacy choices

© 2026 Sharecare, Inc.