PHARMACEUTICAL CARE AND GUIDANCE IN THE USE OF STATINS FOR HIGH CHOLESTEROL

Abstract

Introduction: Hypercholesterolemia is one of the main risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases, presenting high rates of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In this context, statins stand out as important allies in the management of high cholesterol, acting to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels and prevent cardiovascular events. However, the inappropriate use of these medications may compromise treatment effectiveness and increase the risk of adverse effects, making professional guidance and pharmacotherapeutic follow-up essential. Objective: The present study aimed to analyze, based on scientific literature, the importance of pharmaceutical care and proper guidance in the use of statins in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Methodology: This is a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory study conducted through a bibliographic review in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Initially, 16 studies were found in PubMed without applying filters, and 7 articles were subsequently selected after applying the inclusion criteria. In the complementary search conducted in Google Scholar, 1,090 results were identified without filters, and 8 review articles published in the last three years were selected, of which 5 were included in the final analysis. Results: The results show that the pharmacist’s role is essential to ensure the rational use of statins, increase treatment adherence, guide patients regarding possible adverse effects, and contribute to greater safety and effectiveness of pharmacotherapy. Conclusion: Therefore, it is concluded that pharmaceutical care plays an essential role in promoting comprehensive patient care in hypercholesterolemia, assisting in cholesterol control and in the prevention of cardiovascular complications.