Which medication is primarily used for lowering cholesterol?

Study for the Arkansas Medication Assistant - Certified (MA-C) Board Exam. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and explanations. Prepare for your certification!

The correct answer is Statin. Statins are a class of medication specifically designed to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. They work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a central role in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By reducing cholesterol levels, statins can help decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke.

In contrast, the other options serve different primary functions. Beta-blockers are primarily used to manage blood pressure and treat heart-related conditions such as arrhythmias. ACE inhibitors are also primarily used for managing hypertension and heart failure by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Diuretics help eliminate excess fluid from the body and are often used to treat hypertension and conditions related to fluid retention, rather than having a direct effect on cholesterol levels. Therefore, among the choices presented, statins are uniquely focused on cholesterol management.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy