[HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor for therapy of patients with hyperlipoproteinemia ]

The discovery and production of HMGCoA reductase inhibitor and the fundamental research work of the LDL receptor unraveled a receptor-mediated cholesterol homeostasis. HMGCoA reductase inhibitors are the most commonly prescribed class of lipid-lowering drugs in many countries. The decrease of the intracellular cholesterol caused by the inhibitor induces the compensatory increase of LDL receptor protein at liver plasma membrane. The increased receptor promotes LDL catabolism and results in decrease of plasma LDL. Serious side effects involving the liver or muscle are rare. But the risk of myopathy is increased when the drug is used with other hypolipidemic agents. A principle of the treatment of hyperlipidemia, including secondary one associated with diabetes mellitus and renal disease, by HMGCoA reductase is discussed in this review.