Statins attack a symptom - collection of cholesterol in the arteries, by lowering the level of cholesterol in the blood by reducing the production of cholesterol by the liver. Upon finding the collection of cholesterol in the arteries, the assumption was made that “too much” cholesterol was produced. The other source of blood cholesterol, from the diet, is not effected by statins, and conversely diet alone can reduce the blood cholesterol levels without statins, as well as partially defeat the use of statins by consumption of too much high cholesterol foods. The total blood cholesterol is a combination from diet and what the liver produces. Statins only control the liver.
But it must be asked, first, is the liver off kilter? You have “high cholesterol? Not on statins? Try diet modification and see if you can get the numbers down, first. You might never need statins.
There are also illnesses or hormone imbalances that cause high cholesterol. Hypothyroidism-too little thyroid hormone-and Cushings-too much cortisol will both cause very high cholesterol.
There are probably many other things that cause high cholesterol as well.
It’s easier and more financially beneficial(kickbacks from Big Pharma) to the average doctor to just throw down another expensive pill.
Possible imbalances or illnesses that increase cholesterol should be explored thoroughly before prescribing dangerous statin drugs.