Final answer:
Statins reduce cholesterol levels by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is involved in cholesterol synthesis in the body. Apart from statins, other treatments may include fibrates, ezetimibe, niacin, and bile acid sequestrants, as well as plant sterol-containing products and fatty acids.
Step-by-step explanation:
Statins work by affecting the lipid profile through the inhibition of the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme is critical in the synthesis of cholesterol from lipids within the body. When statins inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, they effectively reduce the amount of cholesterol produced, thus lowering blood cholesterol levels. Treatment often includes dietary modifications, but many patients also require pharmacological intervention using statins to further reduce cardiovascular risk.
Other treatments for lowering cholesterol may include fibrates, especially if triglyceride levels are particularly high. However, combining statins with fibrates can lead to increased risks, such as myopathy and rhabdomyolysis, and such combinations are managed under close medical supervision. Additional agents like ezetimibe, niacin, and bile acid sequestrants might also be added to statin therapy. Furthermore, some evidence suggests benefits from plant sterol-containing products and fatty acids in reducing cholesterol.