Updated December 29, 2014.

Definition:

Statins are a class of medications that inhibit the production of cholesterol in your liver. As a result, levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol in your blood go down, which has been associated with a reduced risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.

Examples: Some frequently prescribed statins include Crestor (rosuvastatin), Lipitor (atorvastatin), and Zocor (simvastatin).

To learn more about your medications, use Drugs A to Z.