Statins
The cholesterol family
Every generic name in this class ends in -statin. High cholesterol — lowering LDL to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Blocks HMG-CoA reductase, the liver enzyme that builds cholesterol, so the liver pulls more LDL out of the blood.
The 5 statins in the PTCB Top 200
| Generic | Brand | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Atorvastatin | Lipitor | high cholesterol |
| Rosuvastatin | Crestor | high cholesterol |
| Simvastatin | Zocor | high cholesterol |
| Pravastatin | Pravachol | high cholesterol |
| Lovastatin | Mevacor | high cholesterol |
Tap any generic name for its full drug guide — brand↔generic, side effects, interactions and the exam tip.
What to know for the exam
- check_circleEvery generic name ends in -statin.
- check_circleSeveral are taken in the evening, because the liver makes most of its cholesterol overnight.
- check_circleGrapefruit juice raises blood levels of simvastatin and lovastatin.
- check_circleOften combined with ezetimibe when a statin alone isn't enough.
Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness deserves a pharmacist referral — it can be the first sign of rhabdomyolysis.
A generic name ending in -statin identifies the class as an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor.
Drill statins the way the PTCE asks them
RxReflex groups the Top 200 drugs into classes like this one, then quizzes you on brand↔generic, class, side effects and interactions. Plus a guided Learn path, pharmacy math and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Frequently asked
What does the suffix -statin mean? add
A generic drug name ending in -statin identifies it as one of the statins. High cholesterol — lowering LDL to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
What drugs are in the statins class? add
Atorvastatin, Rosuvastatin, Simvastatin, Pravastatin, Lovastatin. All are in the PTCB Top 200.
What are statins used for? add
High cholesterol — lowering LDL to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
How do statins work? add
Blocks HMG-CoA reductase, the liver enzyme that builds cholesterol, so the liver pulls more LDL out of the blood.
Last reviewed August 7, 2026. For education only — not medical advice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the PTCB.