What is Atorvastatin classified as?

Atorvastatin is classified as an HMG CoA reductase inhibitor, which is a category of drugs known as statins. Statins function by specifically inhibiting the HMG CoA reductase enzyme, which plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of cholesterol in the liver. By lowering cholesterol levels, atorvastatin is effective in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack and stroke, particularly in patients with risk factors for such conditions.

The action of atorvastatin leads to a decrease in LDL cholesterol (often referred to as "bad" cholesterol) and an increase in HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol) in the bloodstream. This dual action is critical for managing hyperlipidemia and preventing atherosclerosis, making HMG CoA reductase inhibitors one of the first-line treatments for patients with high cholesterol levels.

The other classifications provided do not apply to atorvastatin. Anticoagulants are medications that inhibit blood coagulation and are used to prevent thromboembolic events. Vasodilators are drugs that promote vasodilation, or the widening of blood vessels, to improve blood flow. Calcium channel blockers are used to treat hypertension and certain cardiac conditions by inhibiting calcium entry into cells, reducing cardiac contractility