Final answer:
Atorvastatin (Lipitor) is prescribed as secondary prevention for patients who have experienced a myocardial infarction, to reduce cholesterol levels and prevent further cardiac events.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient who sustained a myocardial infarction is likely to be prescribed medications such as atorvastatin (Lipitor) for secondary prevention of further cardiac events. Atorvastatin is part of a class of drugs known as statins, which are HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. These drugs play a crucial role in reducing cholesterol levels by interfering with the synthesis of cholesterol within the body, hence they are commonly prescribed to patients with coronary artery disease or those who have experienced a heart attack.
Statins are used not only to lower cholesterol but also to stabilize plaque and prevent further buildup in the arteries. By reducing the risk of clot formations and subsequent cardiovascular events, atorvastatin serves as secondary prevention. It is crucial to managing patients post-myocardial infarction to prevent recurrence and additional complications.