What type of medication is primarily used to treat high cholesterol (HLD)?

Statins are a class of medications specifically designed to lower levels of cholesterol in the blood, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. They work by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver that is responsible for producing cholesterol, which helps reduce the overall cholesterol levels and can also stabilize plaque on the artery walls. This is particularly important in preventing cardiovascular diseases, as high levels of cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis and other heart-related conditions.

In contrast, ACE inhibitors are primarily used for managing hypertension and some heart conditions, anticoagulants are utilized to prevent blood clots, and beta-blockers are commonly prescribed for heart issues such as arrhythmias or heart failure. While these medications play vital roles in cardiovascular health, they do not target cholesterol levels in the same way that statins do. Thus, statins are the first-line treatment specifically aimed at lowering high cholesterol levels.