Feel free to reprint all or part of an article. Mayo Clinic Women s HealthSource attribution is required. Statins aren t the only cholesterol-lowering drugs available, but they re proving to be the most effective. They work by blocking a key enzyme that the liver needs to make cholesterol. They may also help protect against stroke, possibly making artery walls healthier.
Statins are generally safe and well tolerated by most people.
Common side effects such as headache, abdominal pain, constipation, flatulence and diarrhea tend to be mild. These drugs are expensive, however, and must be taken for years. Before using drugs to help prevent cardiovascular disease, women should modify their diet, exercise regularly and lose weight if needed. Controlling high blood pressure and diabetes, and stopping smoking are also factors that can help prevent heart disease. If you re in your mid-40s, you may be starting to notice that your menstrual periods are becoming irregular, you re having hot flashes, and your waist is thicker and your stomach is paunchier.