Statins, as a unique class of drugs, have a core mechanism of inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme, which is key to cholesterol synthesis, plays a pivotal role in our physiological processes.
Imagine that if the process of cholesterol synthesis were to be compared to a production line, then HMG-CoA reductase is the core machine on this production line, responsible for converting HMG-CoA into mevalonate, which in turn synthesizes cholesterol.
Statins, on the other hand, have a chemical structure that is cleverly similar to HMG-CoA reductase, acting like a precise key that can be seamlessly inserted into the active center of the enzyme.
In this way, when the drug binds to the enzyme, it will prevent the normal binding of HMG-CoA to the enzyme, resulting in the failure of HMG-CoA to be converted to mevalonate.
As a result of this process, the synthesis of cholesterol in the body is effectively inhibited, thus achieving the goal of lowering cholesterol. Not only that, but this mode of action of statins is highly selective.
They only have an effect on HMG-CoA reductase and have minimal effect on other enzyme lines. This precise mode of action makes statins lower cholesterol while having less impact on other physiological functions of the body, which greatly improves the safety and effectiveness of the drug.
01
When taking statins, can't you eat grapefruit?
Grapefruit, a seemingly ordinary fruit, hides a secret that no one knows. The furanocoumarins, flavonoids and other ingredients contained in it are like the "invisible enemy" in drugs, and they have subtle interactions with many drugs. Therefore, it is not an exaggeration to say that grapefruit has been dubbed the "public enemy of medicine".
When we are unwell and need to take medication to regain our health, grapefruit can become a potential threat. Especially when taking statin lipid-lowering drugs such as atorvastatin, simvastatin, lovastatin, etc., if you eat a large amount of grapefruit for the sake of the delicious taste of grapefruit, then the drug may quietly accumulate in the body, increasing the risk of adverse reactions such as liver damage and rhabdomyolysis.
More seriously, the interaction of this drug with grapefruit may even induce acute kidney failure, causing irreversible damage to the body.
So, is it only grapefruit that causes such harm? The answer is no. In fact, grapefruit, tangerines, oranges, etc. all belong to the citrus fruits, and there are certain similarities in composition between them. Therefore, the consumption of these fruits may also trigger adverse reactions with drugs.
For the sake of our health, and for the drug to be able to fully exert its effects, we should be cautious about grapefruit and its similar fruits. It is best to avoid grapefruit while taking the drug, especially when taking statin lipid-lowering drugs.
At the same time, in order to ensure the safety of medication, it is recommended to avoid eating a large number of citrus and orange fruits within 72 hours before and after taking the drug. Let's work together to protect our health from the potential threat of the "public enemy of drugs".
02
The doctor reminded: Not only grapefruit, but also these 4 things should be eaten less
When taking statins, we need to pay special attention to our diet because certain foods may affect the efficacy of the medication. In particular, the following four foods are recommended for patients to minimize their intake while taking the drug.
High-cholesterol foods
Such foods such as organ meats, egg yolks, cheese, etc., are rich in cholesterol and tend to aggravate the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis.
Statins work precisely by lowering the amount of cholesterol in the blood. Therefore, consuming too many high-cholesterol foods can counteract the effects of the medication and may even worsen the condition.
Alcoholic beverages
Alcohol affects the metabolic function of the liver, leading to the accumulation of drugs in the body, increasing the risk of drug side effects. In addition, alcohol can also dilate blood vessels, increase the burden on the heart, and is not conducive to the control of cardiovascular diseases.
High-sugar foods
Excessive sugar intake can lead to an increase in blood sugar, increase the burden on pancreatic islets, and increase the risk of metabolic diseases such as diabetes. While statins treat cardiovascular diseases, they may also have some effects on the metabolic system. Therefore, the intake of high-sugar foods may further increase the metabolic burden and be detrimental to disease control.
tea
Although drinking tea in moderation can help lower blood lipids and refresh the mind, substances such as tannin in tea may affect the absorption and metabolism of drugs. Therefore, patients are advised to avoid drinking a lot of tea, especially strong tea, as much as possible while taking the drug.
03
Other precautions for taking statins
Do not add other drugs indiscriminately
Statins may interact with certain other medications, increasing the risk of adverse effects. For example, certain antibiotics, antifungals, and antiviral drugs may interact with statins, affecting their metabolism and excretion, thereby increasing the concentration of statins in the blood, which may lead to adverse effects such as muscle pain and liver damage.
Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor about drug interactions and possible risks if you need to use other medications while taking statins.
It is not possible to stop taking the drug without permission
Statins are long-term treatment drugs that are mainly used to lower blood lipids and prevent cardiovascular disease. If the drug is stopped without authorization, it may lead to a rebound in blood lipid levels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
In addition, stopping the drug can also cause a rebound phenomenon, which can cause the condition to worsen or develop new symptoms. Therefore, during the period of taking statins, the medication should be strictly followed by the doctor's guidance and the drug should not be discontinued without authorization.
Regular check-ups are required
During the period of taking statins, regular tests of blood lipids, liver function and muscle function are required to detect and deal with possible adverse reactions in a timely manner.
If you have any uncomfortable symptoms or suspected adverse drug reactions, you should seek medical attention and inform your doctor about your medication. Through regular check-ups and doctor's guidance, you can ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medication.