Structure
Lovastatin is a natural statin derived from Aspergillus terreus, featuring a dihydroxyheptanoic acid side chain and a lactone ring.
Chemical Formula: C₂₅H₃₆O₅
Mode of Action
HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibition: Blocks the enzyme hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting step in cholesterol synthesis.
Cholesterol Synthesis Reduction: Decreases hepatic cholesterol production, leading to upregulation of LDL receptors.
LDL-C Lowering: Enhances clearance of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) from the bloodstream.
Plaque Stabilization: Reduces inflammation and stabilizes atherosclerotic plaques.
Uses of Lovastatin
Hypercholesterolemia: Lowers elevated LDL-C and total cholesterol levels.
Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease: Reduces the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke in patients with dyslipidemia.
Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Manages inherited high cholesterol levels.