Question

Which of the following BEST describes the mechanism of action of statins such as simvastatin?

A) Cholesterol synthesis by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase

B) LDL receptor expression in the liver

C) Bile acid formation in the gallbladder

D) Lipoprotein lipase activity in adipose tissue

Answer 1

Statins, such as simvastatin, reduce cholesterol levels by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which synthesizes cholesterol from lipids in the body. This mechanism of action helps to lower cholesterol levels and manage conditions such as high cholesterol and heart disease.

Step-by-step explanation:

Statins, such as simvastatin, work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for synthesizing cholesterol from lipids in the body. By inhibiting this enzyme, the levels of cholesterol synthesized in the body can be reduced. This mechanism of action helps to lower cholesterol levels and manage conditions such as high cholesterol and heart disease. Statins, by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, effectively reduce the levels of cholesterol produced within the body, making them powerful agents in the management of high cholesterol.