A new generation of cholesterol lowering drugs and therapies are approaching the market, according to an article published by the American Chemical Society.
A mixture of oral drugs, injections and single dose gene therapies could cut cholesterol levels by more than half for a large number of at risk people.
One treatment, which promises a 60 percent reduction with only one dose needed, is set to begin human testing this year.
The drugs are based on research of a gene called PCSK9.
People who have a non-functional PCSK9 gene have naturally low levels of unhealthy LDL cholesterol.
The gene codes for a protein that discourages the uptake of LDL by cells, so people with an inactive gene clear more LDL from the blood.
The new therapeutics are looking to inhibit this gene or block the protein it codes for.
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There are incentive structures in the medical industry that incentivise the production of statin alternatives.
Many statins are out of patent and can be produced and distributed at minimal cost.
Research in the Medical Journal of Australia noted that use of generic statins over patented treatments confers savings of several billion pounds.
It may be good to discuss with your doctor what the best treatment is if you are concerned about your cholesterol levels.