Which class of medication is commonly used to treat hyperlipidemia?

Statins are a class of medications specifically designed to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, making them the primary treatment for hyperlipidemia, which refers to elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the bloodstream. The main mechanism of action for statins involves the inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme critical in the biosynthesis of cholesterol in the liver. By reducing cholesterol production, statins effectively lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, often referred to as "bad cholesterol," and additionally can raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, or "good cholesterol."

Statins are well-supported by clinical guidelines and extensive research for their efficacy in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, in patients with high cholesterol or established cardiovascular disease. In contrast, other medication classes, while important for various conditions, do not primarily target lipid levels. For instance, beta-blockers are primarily used for heart rate control and hypertension, ACE inhibitors manage blood pressure and protect kidney function, and calcium channel blockers are utilized for hypertension and certain types of angina. Thus, statins are the drug class most closely associated with the treatment of hyperlipidemia.