Start practicing

Pharmacology · single question

What is the mechanism of action of statins (e.g., simvastatin, atorvastatin)?

  1. Activation of LDL receptors directly
  2. Activation of PPAR-alpha
  3. Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase
  4. Inhibition of cholesterol absorption in the gut
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Activation of LDL receptors directly

  • A. Correct. Statins inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in hepatic cholesterol synthesis, reducing LDL-C levels.
  • B. Incorrect. Statins indirectly upregulate LDL receptors as a downstream effect, but the primary MOA is enzyme inhibition.
  • C. Incorrect. Cholesterol absorption inhibition is the MOA of ezetimibe.
  • D. Incorrect. PPAR-alpha activation is the MOA of fibrates (gemfibrozil, fenofibrate).

Sources disagree on the answer to this question. Check a trusted reference.

Practice Pharmacology questions Pharmacology study notes

More Pharmacology practice questions