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Pharmacology · single question

What is the mechanism of action of statins?

  1. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX)
  2. Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase
  3. Activation of lipoprotein lipase
  4. Blockade of HMG-CoA reductase synthesis
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase

  • A. COX inhibition is the mechanism of NSAIDs/aspirin, not statins.
  • B. Correct. Statins competitively inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme of cholesterol synthesis in the liver, lowering LDL cholesterol.
  • C. Statins do not activate lipoprotein lipase — that is unrelated to their cholesterol-lowering effect.
  • D. Statins inhibit the ENZYME's activity directly; they do not block its synthesis.

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