No they can’t. My husband has suffered with this for almost 2 years. Doctor said there’s nothing she can do. “Benefit outweighs the risk” I’m not so sure. Mine is elevated & I will not go on them. Ever. The side effects are brutal.
I'm not a doctor, but I've read what some doctors who haven't drunk the statin cool-aid claim total cholesterol under 300 shouldn't be treated with drugs, or anything for that matter. It simply isn't a problem. In any case, krill oil, flax oil, oatmeal, exercise seem to have a good track record for lowering cholesterol. Magnesium, exercise, garlic and sunshine can help with high blood pressure. Best wishes for your husband's health.