Many Americans have made tremendous efforts to develop a healthier
lifestyle, which may include taking these medications. Zocor,
manufactured by Merck and Co. pharmaceuticals, is said to significantly
reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with heart disease
or diabetes, who had high or even normal cholesterol.
Thousands of individuals, even those who feel or appear healthy, may be
experiencing difficulties with high cholesterol.
Thatís why
doctors note the importance of checking your cholesterol
regularly. If you do show high levels of bad cholesterol, your
doctor will probably recommend a medication such as Zocor.
How does this drug work? When too much bad cholesterol builds up
on the inside of the arteries, plaque is formed. This plaque
causes the arteries to become hard and inflexible, restricting blood
flow, and possibly causing a stroke or heart attack. Zocor raises
the levels of good cholesterol in the bloodstream to combat the
hardening effect.
Zocor has been especially successful in those who already suffer from
heart disease or diabetes. A pre-release five-year study,
performed on about 4,400 people, showed that those taking this drug had
42% fewer deaths from heart disease and 28% fewer first strokes or
mini-strokes.
One of the most widely prescribed drugs on todayís market, it continues
to show good results among the millions who are taking this helpful
medication. Of course, Zocor canít do all the work for patients
who are at risk of heart attacks or stroke. A change in lifestyle
is called for as well, including a diet rich in healthy foods and
plenty of exercise. Physical fitness will help raise the good
cholesterol in your body, keeping the bad stuff in check.
Though drugs like Zocor always carry some side effects, this drug is
proving to be a helpful tool in leading Americans into a healthier
lifestyle and guaranteeing them a longer life, free from heart attacks
and stroke.